About The Song
Hard on the heels of their breakthrough smash “(They Long to Be) Close to You,” The Carpenters delivered another instant classic in 1970 that would further cement their place in the pop music firmament. “We’ve Only Just Begun” arrived with the same smooth production and impeccable vocals as its predecessor, but it carried a distinct thematic weight – an uplifting message of optimism and the promise held within new beginnings. This song, which quickly became one of the most beloved and enduring tracks by the sibling duo of Karen Carpenter and Richard Carpenter, possesses a unique and fascinating origin story, evolving from a humble television commercial jingle into a timeless anthem recognized and cherished across generations.
The song’s journey began not in a recording studio brainstorming session, but in the world of advertising. The talented songwriting duo of Paul Williams (providing lyrics) and Roger Nichols (composing the music) were commissioned to write a jingle for Crocker National Bank. The resulting commercial featured Paul Williams himself singing lines that would become instantly familiar. It was Richard Carpenter who, upon seeing the commercial, recognized the song’s inherent potential beyond its 60-second format. He sensed a hit hiding within the melody and lyrical theme. Contacting Williams, Richard confirmed the existence of verses not used in the commercial and swiftly set about arranging a full version for The Carpenters. Included on their massively successful Close to You album in 1970, their recording transformed the catchy jingle into a fully realized pop ballad, showcasing its emotional depth and melodic beauty.
Musically, “We’ve Only Just Begun” is a prime example of Richard Carpenter’s arranging genius and the signature sound of The Carpenters. The song opens gently, often with Richard’s expressive piano introduction, before Karen Carpenter’s unmistakable voice enters – warm, clear, and immediately inviting. The arrangement builds gradually and seamlessly; starting with a relatively sparse accompaniment, it swells with the addition of lush vocal harmonies (achieved through Karen’s meticulous multi-tracking), subtle bass and drums, and eventually, soaring strings and potentially woodwind or horn textures that lift the chorus to an inspiring crescendo. The melody, crafted by Roger Nichols, is fluid and instantly memorable, possessing an inherent sense of hopefulness. Richard’s harmonic choices add richness and sophistication, creating a soundscape that is both comforting and uplifting.
Lyrically, Paul Williams crafted verses that speak universally to the experience of starting a shared journey. The words paint a picture of embarking on a new chapter filled with promise (“We’ve only just begun / To live,” “Before the rising sun / We fly”). While lines like “White lace and promises / A kiss for luck and we’re on our way” have understandably led to the song’s strong association with weddings, the core theme resonates more broadly with any significant new beginning undertaken by a committed partnership. The lyrics emphasize shared experience, mutual support, and the vast potential of the future (“So much of life ahead / We’ll find a place where there’s room to grow”). The prevailing feeling is one of quiet confidence and gentle optimism, looking forward to navigating life’s journey together (“And when the evening comes we smile / So much of life ahead / We’ll find a place where there’s room to grow / And yes, we’ve just begun”).
Karen Carpenter’s vocal performance is central to the song’s enduring appeal. She delivers the lyrics with a profound sincerity and warmth that makes the hopeful message feel genuine and deeply comforting. There’s an understated quality to her delivery, yet it carries immense emotional weight. Her perfect diction ensures every word resonates, while the inherent beauty and purity of her contralto voice provide a soothing, reassuring quality. Richard Carpenter’s sensitive arrangement provides the perfect framework, allowing Karen’s voice to shine while enhancing the song’s emotional arc.
Released as a single in late 1970, “We’ve Only Just Begun” became another massive hit for The Carpenters, reaching #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and further solidifying their status as pop superstars. Its legacy, however, extends far beyond chart statistics. The song quickly became, and remains to this day, a beloved standard for weddings, anniversaries, and graduations – any occasion celebrating new beginnings and hopeful futures. Its timeless appeal was formally recognized with its induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998. “We’ve Only Just Begun” stands as a testament to the songwriting talents of Paul Williams and Roger Nichols, the arranging artistry of Richard Carpenter, and the unique vocal gift of Karen Carpenter. Its remarkable journey from a bank commercial to an enduring anthem of hope is a story as inspiring as the song itself.