The Carpenters

Richard and Karen Carpenter had a fourteen year career as singing favorites. The death of Karen in 1983, connected with anorexia, ended their recording career. The name the Carpenters is connected with famous hits such as "We've Only Just Begun," "Close to You," "Bless the Beasts and Children," "All You Get From Love Is a Love Song," and their very popular "Christmas Portrait." It was the combination of Karen's voice and Richard's talent in arranging and writing that brought this duo many awards and great popularity.

The Carpenters made five specials for ABC. The first special aired on December 8, 1976. Guests on this special were John Denver and Victor Borge. It was greeted with overwhelming enthusiasm. Curiously enough, Richard wasn't as enthusiastic about these specials as Karen was. Richard would have preferred less comedy sketches and more focus on their music. Their popularity led to tours in the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Belgium. However, their career was hampered by Richard becoming addicted to Quaalude and Karen having an eating disorder. In January of 1979, Richard began a six week rehab program. At its completion, he wanted to take the rest of the year off, but Karen began work on a solo album. Richard knew that Karen was not physically fit to do this project. His perception proved true. After some fits and starts Karen decided to cancel the project. In 1980, the duo completed the album "Made In America," which was well received. The song "Touch Me When We're Dancing" from this album was their last song to make the American top 20 list.

The Carpenters continue to have a fan base. A website, "The Carpenters Online," was receiving 200 to 300 emails a week as of 2007.