Karen Carpenter

thumb|Karen Carpenter Karen Carpenter Karen Anne Carpenter (March 2, 1950 – February 4, 1983) was an American musician who was the lead vocalist and early drummer of the highly successful duo The Carpenters, formed with her older brother Richard. With a distinctive three-octave contralto range, she was praised by her peers for her vocal skills. Carpenter's work continues to attract praise, including appearing on Rolling Stones 2010 list of the 100 greatest singers of all time. Quotes Buddy Rich named Karen as his favorite pop drummer, and Buddy famously did not give out compliments. As an egomaniac, he might have bestowed this compliment because her style and technique is very much like his: monster chops, flash, and musicality. Oh, and she sings at the same time! Because she was such an amazing singer (coupled with a healthy dose of sexism), she was muscled off her instrument of choice and into the role of singer and frontwoman for The Carpenters. The hits followed and so did her tragic demise. First and foremost, Karen was a wildly talented drummer, and sadly she was never afforded the accolades she deserved, or revered for the drumming talent that she was. Pat McGee of Stars (band) External links Category:Singers from the United States Category:Drummers from the United States Category:Pop singers Category:Rock singers Category:Deaths from disease Category:People from New Haven Category:Women from the United States Category:Women singers Category:Women musicians Category:1950 births Category:1983 deaths Category:Women born in the 1950s Category:Music producers from the United States