About the song
The Carpenters’ “Only Yesterday” is a timeless ballad that captures the essence of nostalgia and reflection, resonating deeply with listeners through its emotive lyrics and Karen Carpenter’s evocative vocals. Released in 1975 as part of their album “Horizon,” the song was written by Richard Carpenter along with John Bettis, a frequent collaborator known for his poetic songwriting.
“Only Yesterday” delves into themes of reminiscence and the passage of time, portraying a sense of longing for cherished memories. Karen Carpenter’s soulful delivery imbues the song with a heartfelt sincerity, making it a poignant journey through moments of reflection and introspection.
Upon its release, “Only Yesterday” achieved moderate success on the charts, peaking at number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. Its popularity was bolstered by the Carpenters’ reputation for producing melodic and emotionally resonant music that touched the hearts of fans worldwide.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke strong emotions and connect with listeners on a personal level. Its inclusion in various compilations and retrospectives of the Carpenters’ music has solidified its status as a beloved classic among fans of soft rock and easy listening.
Richard Carpenter’s arrangement of “Only Yesterday” is characterized by its lush orchestration and Karen Carpenter’s velvety vocals, which convey the song’s heartfelt sentiment with authenticity and grace. The combination of rich harmonies and a memorable melody has ensured its place as a standout track in the Carpenters’ extensive discography.
In conclusion, “Only Yesterday” by the Carpenters remains a testament to their musical talent and ability to capture the essence of introspection and nostalgia. Its blend of heartfelt lyrics, Karen Carpenter’s emotive vocals, and Richard Carpenter’s meticulous production continue to resonate with listeners, reaffirming its status as a timeless gem in the realm of soft rock and popular music.
Video
Lyrics
After long enough of being alone
Everyone must face their share of loneliness
In my own time, nobody knew
The pain I was goin’ through
And waitin’ was all my heart could do
Hope was all I had until you came
Maybe you can’t see how much you mean to me
You were the dawn breaking the night
The promise of mornin’ light
Filling the world surroundin’ me
When I hold you
Baby, baby, feels like maybe
Things will be all right
Baby, baby, your love’s made me
Free as a song, singin’ forever
Only yesterday when I was sad and I was lonely
You showed me the way to leave the past and all its tears behind me
Tomorrow maybe even brighter than today
Since I threw my sadness away
Only yesterday
I have found my home here in your arms
Nowhere else on earth I’d really rather be
Life waits for us, share it with me
The best is about to be
And so much is left for us to see
When I hold you
Baby, baby, feels like maybe
Things will be all right
Baby, baby, your love’s made me
Free as a song, singin’ forever
Only yesterday when I was sad and I was lonely
You showed me the way to leave the past and all its tears behind me
Tomorrow maybe even brighter than today
Since I threw my sadness away
Only yesterday (only yesterday, only yesterday)
Only yesterday when I was sad and I was lonely
You showed me the way to leave the past and all its tears behind me