About the song
“Can’t Smile Without You” is a classic love song performed by The Carpenters, an American musical duo consisting of siblings Karen and Richard Carpenter. The song was included in their album “A Kind of Hush,” released in 1976.
The song was not originally written for The Carpenters; it was penned by Barry Manilow along with lyricists Chris Arnold, David Martin, and Geoff Morrow. Manilow first recorded the song in 1976 for his album “This One’s for You.” The Carpenters later covered it, and their rendition became one of the most well-known and beloved versions of the song.
“Can’t Smile Without You” is a romantic ballad expressing the joy and fulfillment that love brings. The lyrics convey the idea that the singer’s happiness and ability to smile are intimately connected to the presence and love of another person. The melody is sweet and melodic, characteristic of The Carpenters’ signature style.
The song received positive critical acclaim and achieved commercial success. It reached the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. The Carpenters’ rendition of “Can’t Smile Without You” remains popular and is often included in compilations of their greatest hits.
The Carpenters, known for their soft pop and easy listening sound, became one of the best-selling music artists of the 1970s. Karen Carpenter’s distinctive voice and Richard Carpenter’s musical arrangements contributed to their enduring appeal. “Can’t Smile Without You” stands as a testament to their ability to interpret and popularize beautiful love songs.
Video