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I know Richard Carpenter has gotten a bad rap sometimes for his personality, but, I must say--when I met him in 1985 (I being, what, 23...) he actually shook my hand with zest and pleasure.
It has been amusing reading the news reports of the comedian Seinfeld and his
resistance to hugging a stranger--in this instance, he would not hug Kesha-- when she asked.
(I do not know who she is--or, not until this episode arose--now, I understand she is a singer).
But, back to the relevance here....
I know Richard Carpenter has gotten a bad rap sometimes for his personality,
but, I must say--when I met him in 1985 (I being, what, 23...) he actually
shook my hand with zest and pleasure. I had not brought anything for him to sign,
to get his autograph after his performance at Epcot--so, all of a sudden I blurted out
"can I shake your hand?" and, he did not skip a beat, and he said "Sure,"
and he reached out and gave me a hearty,firm, handshake.
I may not remember the performance, but, I do remember his heartfelt reaction at that time.
I often wonder, does he remember that moment ?
Anyway, it has stayed with me all these years.
Thanks, Richard Carpenter !
@GaryAlan, great to hear your remembrances from that event, also attended by me. (I believe reading that @Harry was there, too. And maybe others?) I also remember meeting Richard and getting a nice handshake, and I was so nervous and stuttering my words of admiration. I remember being shocked by the sight of Richard smoking a cigarette! Scandalous, I know... But he was definitely gracious. I enjoyed the concert and, like you, treasure the meeting...
From Japan...A 'new' one for me....heartbreaking....
I am resurrecting this thread because I want to make it available to those fans who might actually want to praise Richard for his myriad accomplishments and talents from time to time...
Further, as some members are hoping for Richard to make a surprise (or even planned) appearance at the 50th Anniversary Celebration in 2019 in southern California, that prospect can surely be enhanced if Richard feels welcome and appreciated by the fan base...
All I know is, if I am at that 50th Anniversary celebration (as I intend to be) and Richard presents himself, I will give him a Standing O and be just as excited at seeing him as every other Carpenter fan present! It would be really nice if he could make it.
^^I still believe, although I cannot substantiate, that the overwhelming majority of comments,
at this Forum, are positive.
Now, granted there have been attacks of a personal nature (which I agree are uncalled for),
but, for the most part (even with differing musical opinions) there is much adoration here for Richard Carpenter.
Now, do I still say I believe his "Lead Vocals" are up-to-par ?
Not at all. His Leads are not my cup of tea (I prefer male leads to sing in lower key).
But, many folks do prefer his type of Lead Vocal (As I emphasize, for I love his harmonies).
Be that as it may, there's adoration aplenty for Richard, both as a person and musical inspiration,
I would be shocked if he were unaware of that.
I don't think Richard has any problem with differing opinions, criticisms, and second-guesses regarding their career or music. He, after all, has them too. If I were Richard, I would have issues with all the personal attacks (and many of them often mean and/or cruel) on him and his deceased mother that are posted here way too often. Because of those, If I were him, I sure wouldn't make an appearance.
I am still hopeful, I think he WILL make an appearance. I imagine him addressing the adoring Carpenters fans at some venue (perhaps CPAC at standing room only in the auditorium). Even play a number or two on the piano. I imagine him opening up the warehouse and letting us look at his car collection and take photos. I imagine him coming into the room and receiving a Standing Ovation!
So, I had to go back and re-visit the CBS-Movie: The Karen Carpenter Story.
I must say I agree with Richard Carpenter's words:
"We all make mistakes--and one of my biggest was allowing myself to be talked into authorizing,
and participating in, the making of The Karen Carpenter Story--approximately 90 minutes of
creative license that gives biopics, in general, a dubious name....many fictitious scenes...."
(Essential Collection Liner Notes--Karen's Theme).
Sadly, much of the negative assessment regarding their personal information arises from this CBS-Movie.
If ever there was a catalyst for mis-information, this Movie is it.
Sadly, as the words above recall, Richard Carpenter realizes it.