Introduction:
The soft glow of a ballad bathed in bossa nova rhythms – that’s the essence of “Hurting Each Other”, a song delivered with signature tenderness by the iconic brother-sister duo, The Carpenters. Released in 1972 on their album A Song for You, this track may not have reached the chart-topping heights of some of their other hits, but it holds a special place in their discography for its poignant message and Karen Carpenter’s unforgettable vocals.
While not originally a Carpenters composition, “Hurting Each Other” found a new life under their touch. Written by songwriting team Gary Geld and Peter Udell in 1965, the song had already been performed by artists like Ruby & the Romantics. However, it was Richard Carpenter’s exquisite arrangement that truly elevated the track. Known for his meticulous production style and penchant for lush orchestration, Richard weaved a tapestry of sound that perfectly complemented Karen’s voice.
A Song for You, the album on which “Hurting Each Other” appears, was a turning point for The Carpenters. Following the immense success of their debut album, Close to You (1970), there was pressure to replicate that magic. A Song for You showcased a maturing sound, with Richard experimenting with more diverse musical influences. Tracks like “Hurting Each Other” demonstrated this shift, incorporating the gentle sway of bossa nova into their signature soft rock sound.
Despite not being a chart-topping single, “Hurting Each Other” resonated with listeners for its relatable theme. The song is a heartfelt plea to break the cycle of emotional pain in a relationship. The repeated refrain, “Can’t we stop hurting each other?”, captures the frustration and longing for understanding that often comes with navigating love’s complexities. Karen Carpenter delivers these lines with a delicate vulnerability that tugs at the heartstrings, making the song a powerful ballad about the desire for connection and emotional healing.
Though not their biggest commercial success, “Hurting Each Other” remains a beloved entry in The Carpenters’ catalog. It’s a testament to their ability to transform a pre-existing song into something entirely their own, showcasing both Richard’s masterful production and Karen’s unparalleled vocal prowess. Ultimately, the song stands as a gentle reminder of the importance of communication and empathy within relationships.
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Lyrics:
No one in the worldEver had a love as sweet as my loveFor nowhere in the worldCould there be a boy as true as you, love
All my love I give gladly to youAll your love you give gladly to meTell me why then, oh why should it be that
We go on hurting each otherWe go on hurting each otherMaking each other cryHurting each otherWithout ever knowing why
Closer than the leavesOn a weeping willow, baby, we areCloser dear are weThan the simple letters A and B are
All my life I could love only youAll your life you could love only meTell me why, then?Oh why should it be that
We go on hurting each otherWe go on hurting each otherMaking each other cryHurting each otherWithout ever knowing why
Can’t we stop hurting each otherGotta stop hurting each otherMaking each other cryBreaking each other’s heartTearing each other apartCan’t we stop hurting each otherGotta stop hurting each otherMaking each other cryBreaking each other’s heartTearing each other apartCan’t we stop hurting each other