About the song
The Carpenters’ “Rainy Days and Mondays” is more than just a catchy pop tune. Released in 1971, this song became a signature ballad for the brother-sister duo, capturing a relatable sentiment of melancholy and longing. This introduction delves into the song’s origins, its impact on the music charts, and the enduring appeal of its message.
Composed by songwriting team Paul Williams and Roger Nichols, “Rainy Days and Mondays” wasn’t originally intended for the Carpenters. However, upon hearing the demo, Richard Carpenter recognized the song’s potential to showcase Karen Carpenter’s exceptional vocals. He envisioned a sparse arrangement, allowing her voice to take center stage.
The song’s melancholic lyrics, with lines like “Talkin’ to myself and feelin’ old” and “Rainy days and Mondays always get me down,” resonated with listeners. It perfectly captured the feeling of listlessness and ennui that can accompany gloomy weather and the start of the week.
Despite its seemingly downbeat theme, “Rainy Days and Mondays” wasn’t a commercial failure. The song peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, showcasing the Carpenters’ crossover appeal. While it narrowly missed the top spot, it remained in the Top 10 for seven weeks. The song also achieved significant success on the Adult Contemporary charts, becoming the duo’s fourth number one single in that category.
“Rainy Days and Mondays” transcended its chart success. It became a staple on radio stations and a go-to song for anyone experiencing a low point. The song’s influence extended beyond the airwaves, inspiring cover versions by artists from various genres.
Even today, “Rainy Days and Mondays” retains its power to connect. Featured in compilations and referenced in pop culture, the song continues to resonate with audiences of all generations. Its simple yet evocative melody and relatable lyrics serve as a reminder that even the gloomiest days eventually give way to sunshine.
Video
Lyrics
Talkin’ to myself and feelin’ old
Sometimes I’d like to quit
Nothin’ ever seems to fit
Hangin’ around
Nothin’ to do but frown
Rainy days and Mondays always get me down
What I’ve got they used to call the blues
Nothin’ is really wrong
Feelin’ like I don’t belong
Walkin’ around
Some kind of lonely clown
Rainy days and Mondays always get me down
Funny, but it seems I always wind up here with you
Nice to know somebody loves me
Funny, but it seems that it’s the only thing to do
Run and find the one who loves me (the one who loves me)
What I feel has come and gone before
No need to talk it out (talk it out)
We know what it’s all about
Hangin’ around (hangin’ around)
Nothin’ to do but frown
Rainy days and Mondays always get me down
Funny, but it seems that it’s the only thing to do (only thing to do)
Run and find the one who loves me (ooh)
What I feel has come and gone before
No need to talk it out (to talk it out)
We know what it’s all about
Hangin’ around (hangin’ around)
Nothin’ to do but frown
Rainy days and Mondays always get me down
Hangin’ around (hangin’ around)
Nothin’ to do but frown
Rainy days and Mondays always get
Me down
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