Introduction
“Rainy Days and Mondays,” a song synonymous with the Carpenters’ soft and sweet sound, has a history as relatable as its lyrics. Released in 1971 on their self-titled third album, the song wasn’t penned by the brother-sister duo themselves. Instead, it came from the songwriting team of Paul Williams and Roger Nichols, who had previously gifted the Carpenters another hit, “We’ve Only Just Begun.”
The melancholic melody perfectly captures the feeling of being stuck in a rut, particularly on a gloomy Monday. Karen Carpenter’s signature vocals weave a tale of introspection and a longing for escape from the mundane. While seemingly simple, the lyrics resonate with anyone who’s ever felt a case of the “Monday blues” amplified by dreary weather.
Despite its relatable theme, “Rainy Days and Mondays” wasn’t a major hit across the board. It failed to make a dent in the UK charts until a 1993 reissue. However, in the United States, it resonated deeply, becoming the Carpenters’ fourth number one single on the Adult Contemporary chart and achieving Gold certification by the RIAA.
“Rainy Days and Mondays” remains a beloved Carpenters classic. Its enduring popularity lies in its ability to capture a universal feeling of low spirits and the hope for brighter days ahead. So next time you find yourself stuck inside on a gloomy Monday, put on “Rainy Days and Mondays” and let Karen Carpenter’s soothing voice remind you that even the rainiest days eventually give way to sunshine.