Karen Anne Carpenter was an American singer and drummer who formed half of the highly successful duo the Carpenters with her older brother Richard. With a distinctive three-octave contralto range, she was praised by her peers for her vocal skills. Carpenter's work continues to attract praise, including appearing on Rolling Stone's 2010 list of the 100 greatest singers of all time.
Carpenter drumming on stage, early 1970s
The Carpenters' star at the Hollywood Walk of Fame
The Carpenters, officially known as Carpenters, were an American vocal and instrumental duo consisting of siblings Karen (1950–1983) and Richard Carpenter. They produced a distinctive soft musical style, combining Karen's contralto vocals with Richard's harmonizing, arranging, and composition skills. During their 14-year career, the Carpenters recorded 10 albums along with many singles and several television specials.
Karen and Richard Carpenter in 1974
The Richard Carpenter Trio in 1967, featuring Karen, Wes Jacobs and Richard
Karen drumming on stage
Richard in 1973