About The Song
“Only Yesterday” is a classic pop song by The Carpenters. Here are some details about the song:
Title: Only Yesterday
Artist: Carpenters
Release Date: March 16, 1975
Album: Horizon
Label: A&M Records
Writers: Richard Carpenter, John Bettis
Genre: Pop
Background: “Only Yesterday” was written by Richard Carpenter and John Bettis. It was released as a single and later included on The Carpenters’ album “Horizon.” The song reflects on nostalgia and the bittersweet feelings associated with reminiscing about the past.
Musical Style: The song is characterized by The Carpenters’ trademark soft pop sound, featuring Karen Carpenter’s warm and emotive vocals and Richard Carpenter’s meticulous arrangements. The orchestration includes lush strings and gentle piano, contributing to the duo’s signature style.
Chart Performance: “Only Yesterday” performed well on the charts, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also achieved success on adult contemporary charts, becoming another hit in The Carpenters’ string of chart-topping singles.
Legacy: “Only Yesterday” is regarded as one of The Carpenters’ classic songs. Its enduring popularity has contributed to the duo’s lasting legacy in the realm of soft pop and adult contemporary music.
Cultural Impact: The Carpenters’ music, including “Only Yesterday,” has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, maintaining their presence in popular culture. The song’s themes of reflection and nostalgia resonate with listeners across generations.
Awards: While “Only Yesterday” did not receive major music awards, its commercial success and ongoing popularity have solidified its place among The Carpenters’ most beloved tracks.
“Only Yesterday” showcases The Carpenters’ ability to deliver poignant and melodic pop songs. Karen Carpenter’s vocals, coupled with Richard Carpenter’s musical arrangements, create a timeless piece that captures the essence of the duo’s contribution to the soft pop genre.
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Lyrics
“Only Yesterday”
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 morning light
Filling the world surrounding 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
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