|
Post by Christian on Sept 24, 2003 8:05:27 GMT -5
As we all know this song was re-recorded in 1978 for the Christmas Portrait album. I, for some reason, cannot see why as I think the previous version had better vocals although Karen was not happy with them.
I feel the original version has more warmth to it, whereas the latter on she sings abitt higher and it doesn`t appeal that much to me as she sometimes sounds abitt pushed. For this reason I always play the original version.
What do you think?
|
|
|
Post by cam83 on Sept 24, 2003 12:48:18 GMT -5
Hi All, I don't like the first version of MERRY CHRISTMAS DARLING at all. I love the second version on Christmas Portrait...it sounds more mellow, more refined...the origional version just to me, sounds very rough...still beautiful...but I prefer her lead vocal being recut...
Cameron clongo83@hotmail.com
|
|
|
Post by Rick Henry on Sept 24, 2003 15:10:20 GMT -5
I like both versions almost evenly, but I have to say I like the rerecorded version just a zinch more. So goes my vote.
|
|
|
Post by Sammy on Sept 24, 2003 19:57:51 GMT -5
I went for the 1978 recording.
|
|
|
Post by Christian on Sept 25, 2003 8:46:16 GMT -5
I agree with you Cameron, the 1970 version is slightly rougher but this is what I like about it. Also some of the earlier vocals like Nowhere Man, California dreaming, Superstar etc had this quality which I sometimes miss in their later recordings but then again, not many of the latter songs where suitable for this vocal. Anyway, both versions are great!
|
|
|
Post by ThomB on Sept 25, 2003 21:17:15 GMT -5
the earlier version is what i came to love first and is my favorite. i have the 7" single with the great picture sleeve.
|
|
|
Post by smoothie2 on Sept 25, 2003 22:29:51 GMT -5
:)didn't know there was a 1970 version of it, but I love that song..
|
|
|
Post by Christian on Sept 26, 2003 10:50:47 GMT -5
Hi smoothie. I don`t think the 1970`s version is that easy to come by. It was, as mentioned, released in 1970 as a single and then as the b-side to Santa Claus....in 74 but re-recorded in 78. the original version is at least available on the 4cd set From The Top.
|
|
|
Post by ThomB on Oct 8, 2003 19:18:08 GMT -5
Does anybody know the story behind this song? I once heard it was written during wartime.
|
|
|
Post by cam83 on Oct 8, 2003 19:53:59 GMT -5
Hi, Merry Christmas Darling was written by Richard Carpenter and John Bettis.
Cam
|
|
|
Post by Rick Henry on Oct 8, 2003 21:25:06 GMT -5
You're close Cam, but actually Merry Christmas Darling was written by Richard Carpenter and Frank Pooler. Pooler (who was one of K&R's instructor's at Long Beach State Univ.) wrote the lyric in 1946. It was just after world war two. The lyric was about a young lady missing her boyfriend who was gone away to fight in the war. Finally in 1970 Richard wrote the music to the lyric and the rest is history. The song is poignant and timely. It's a beautiful song.
|
|
|
Post by cam83 on Oct 8, 2003 21:30:17 GMT -5
Well I stand corrected than. That is so amazing! I didn't know that. Yes, you are right...Frank Pooler and Richard Carpenter!! See, I do learn something new every day.
Cameron ;-)
|
|
|
Post by Rick Henry on Oct 8, 2003 21:40:34 GMT -5
See, I do learn something new every day. Cameron ;-) Don't we all. ;D
|
|
|
Post by Will on Oct 10, 2003 0:56:00 GMT -5
Simply one of my favorite songs of all time.
Very emotional for me.
|
|
|
Post by HGN2001 on Oct 30, 2003 7:49:37 GMT -5
Hi gang. First I'd like to say that my preference is the 1970 version. I like that rawer, younger sound that Karen had back then and favor the first album for that reason.
But back to "Merry Christmas Darling", let's not forget that there's a third and rather rare version of the song. Found on the 1992 compilation from Time-Life called Christmas With The Carpenters, this newest remix features techniques that Richard has used in his other efforts: re-done stereo piano, vocal reverb, and enhanced bass presence. It uses the 1978 lead vocal, and is well-worth seeking out for fans. The Christmas With The Carpenters package is a two-CD set licensed to Time-Life through Polygram Special Markets. It features a mix of songs from both albums, but surprisingly being on two CDs, you'd think it would be all of the songs, but it isn't.
|
|
|
Post by cam83 on Oct 30, 2003 16:43:54 GMT -5
Hi Harry, WELCOME and thanks for the information on MERRY CHRISTMAS DARLING.
Cam
|
|
|
Post by Rick Henry on Oct 30, 2003 19:59:53 GMT -5
Welcome Harry, nice to have you aboard.
|
|
|
Post by Boat2Sail on Oct 31, 2003 21:49:00 GMT -5
Hi gang. First I'd like to say that my preference is the 1970 version. I like that rawer, younger sound that Karen had back then and favor the first album for that reason. But back to "Merry Christmas Darling", let's not forget that there's a third and rather rare version of the song. Found on the 1992 compilation from Time-Life called Christmas With The Carpenters, this newest remix features techniques that Richard has used in his other efforts: re-done stereo piano, vocal reverb, and enhanced bass presence. It uses the 1978 lead vocal, and is well-worth seeking out for fans. The Christmas With The Carpenters package is a two-CD set licensed to Time-Life through Polygram Special Markets. It features a mix of songs from both albums, but surprisingly being on two CDs, you'd think it would be all of the songs, but it isn't. Hi Harry! Love the A&M logo. I also like Karen's earlier raw enegetic vocals, but still like the later more refined voice.
|
|