About the song

Introducing “Only Yesterday” by the Carpenters, a timeless melody that gently embraces the soul with its nostalgic lyrics and soothing harmonies. Released in 1975 as part of their album “Horizon,” this iconic track embodies the Carpenters’ signature blend of soft rock and easy listening, captivating listeners with its heartfelt sincerity and emotional depth.

Penned by Richard Carpenter and John Bettis, “Only Yesterday” delves into themes of reminiscence and longing for the simplicity of days gone by. Karen Carpenter’s velvety vocals, accompanied by Richard Carpenter’s lush arrangements, infuse the song with a sense of wistfulness and longing that resonates with audiences of all ages.

“Only Yesterday” ascended the charts, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, reaffirming the Carpenters’ status as one of the era’s most beloved musical acts. Its timeless melody and poignant lyrics struck a chord with listeners, earning widespread acclaim and enduring popularity.

The song’s universal appeal has led to numerous covers and tributes, solidifying its place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide. Whether you’re reflecting on cherished memories or yearning for days past, “Only Yesterday” serves as a poignant reminder of the power of music to evoke emotions and transport us through time.

Decades after its release, “Only Yesterday” continues to captivate audiences with its timeless beauty and heartfelt lyrics, ensuring its place as a classic in the Carpenters’ illustrious discography.

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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