We've Only Just Begun

Paul Williams

About We've Only Just Begun

"We've Only Just Begun" is a hit single by The Carpenters written by Roger Nichols (music) and Paul Williams (lyrics). Ranked at No. 405 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time", it is frequently used as a wedding song.


Year:
1977
52 

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We've only just begun to live
White lace and promises
A kiss for luck and we're on our way
(We've only begun)

Before the risin' sun, we fly
So many roads to choose
We'll start out walkin' and learn to run
And yes, we've just begun

Sharing horizons that are new to us
Watching the signs along the way
Talkin' it over, just the two of us
Workin' together day to day
Together

And when the evening comes, we smile
So much of life ahead
We'll find a place where there's room to grow
And yes, we've just begun

Sharing horizons that are new to us
Watching the signs along the way
Talkin' it over, just the two of us
Workin' together day to day
Together
Together

And when the evening comes, we smile
So much of life ahead
We'll find a place where there's room to grow
And yes, we've just begun

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Paul Williams

Paul Williams is an American songwriter, singer, and actor. He achieved success in the 1970s with numerous hit songs, including "We've Only Just Begun" and "Rainy Days and Mondays." Williams has also acted in various movies and TV shows and has written music for films, such as "A Star is Born." He is known for his distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics. more »

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Written by: Paul Williams, Roger Nichols

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Tratore, Downtown Music Publishing

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Origin of the Song
The song "We've Only Just Begun" was initially composed by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols in 1970. This piece was not originally intended as a full-fledged song but was composed for a bank commercial.
Commercial Usage
In one of the commercials for Crocker National Bank in California, this song was included. The commercial depicted a newly-wed couple starting their new life together, so the song lyrics fit perfectly.
Carpenter's Adaptation
Richard Carpenter from the duo “Carpenters” saw the commercial and decided to make a complete song out of the snippet used in the advertisement. He reached out to the original composers, Paul Williams and Roger Nichols, to create the remaining verses.
Chart-Topping
Once released, the song quickly climbed the charts reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 1 on the easy listening charts.
Gold Record
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) declared the song a Gold Record after it sold over 1 million copies. It also received a Grammy Nomination for the Best Contemporary Performance by a Duo, Group, or Chorus.
Interpretations
Although Paul Williams has stated that the song was written simply about the new adventures of a newlywed couple, it has often been used as a high school prom or graduation theme due to its lyrics “We’ve only just begun to live, White lace and promises” implying new beginnings.
Legacy
This song has been considered one of The Carpenters signature hits and is a staple of classic pop music. In 1998, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Cultural Impact
The song has been covered by various artists over the years and has also been used significantly in popular culture. It was featured in movies such as "1408" and "The Simpsons".
Recognition
"We've Only Just Begun" is ranked No. 405 in Rolling Stone’s list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time”.
Tragic Connection
Interestingly and tragically, "We've Only Just Begun" was the song that Karen Carpenter performed at her last public appearance in 1982. She died of heart failure induced by anorexia nervosa in 1983. This has given the song added poignancy for many fans of The Carpenters.

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