About the song
The Carpenters’ “Rainy Days and Mondays” is more than just a song; it’s a melancholic masterpiece that has resonated with audiences for decades. Released in 1971, this track, with its poignant lyrics and Karen Carpenter’s signature vocals, has become a timeless anthem of bittersweet nostalgia.
Written by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols, the duo behind the Carpenters’ earlier hit “We’ve Only Just Begun,” “Rainy Days and Mondays” captures the universal experience of feeling down. The song’s opening lines, “Monday morning, a brand new day, but it’s a rainy day,” immediately set a somber tone, evoking feelings of loneliness and isolation. Karen Carpenter’s heartfelt delivery of the lyrics further enhances the song’s emotional impact.
The sparse arrangement, featuring minimal instrumentation, allows Karen’s vocals to take center stage. Her voice, both fragile and powerful, effortlessly conveys the song’s underlying sadness. The gentle piano accompaniment and subtle strings provide a melancholic backdrop that perfectly complements the lyrics.
“Rainy Days and Mondays” quickly became a commercial success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its relatable themes and Karen Carpenter’s exceptional vocal performance. While the song may have failed to chart in the United Kingdom until years later, its impact on popular music is undeniable.
Today, “Rainy Days and Mondays” remains a beloved classic, frequently covered by artists across various genres. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, from sadness and longing to comfort and nostalgia. The song’s enduring legacy is a testament to the Carpenters’ musical talent and the power of a well-crafted melody.
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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