They Long to Be Close to You

Song Meaning of They Long to Be Close to You by The Carpenters

Originally recorded by Richard Chamberlain and released alongside b-side 'Blue Guitar' in 1963, this song did not chart. It wasn’t until 1970 that it was given its big break when the southern California brother-sister duo The Carpenters released their version. It went to the top of the charts and became their first #1 single. It was the start of a string of hits that would dominate Easy Listening radio throughout the decade.

The Carpenters’ version is the one that most people associate with this song. It features Karen Carpenter singing beautifully in a way that really brings out the beauty of the melody and the lighthearted sentiments of the lyric. Their arrangement is full of those trademark multi-layered harmonies that they are known for. They also nailed the trumpet part in the middle of the song, which had been a major problem for Bacharach and Hal David with previous recordings.

They Long to Be Close to You lyrics by The Carpenters

Why do birds suddenly appear

Every time you are near?

Just like me,

They long to be

Close to you.

Why do stars fall down from the sky

Every time you walk by?

Just like me,

They long to be

Close to you.

On the day that you were born the angels got together

And decided to create a dream come true.

So, they sprinkled moon dust in your hair of gold

And star light in your eyes of blue.

That is why all the girls in town

Follow you all around.

Just like me,

They long to be

Close to you.

On the day that you were born the angels got together

And decided to create a dream come true.

So, they sprinkled moon dust in your hair of gold

And star light in your eyes of blue.

That is why all the girls in town

Follow you all around.

Just like me,

They long to be

Close to you.

Just like me,

They long to be

Close to you.

Why? Close to you

Why? Close to you

Ha, close to you

Why? Close to you