Album Info
| Artist: | Carole King |
| Album: | Simple Things |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | Netherlands, 28 Apr 2023 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Simple Things | 2:41 |
| A2 | Hold On | 4:37 |
| A3 | In the Name of Love | 3:04 |
| A4 | Labyrinth | 4:03 |
| A5 | You're the One Who Knows | 5:05 |
| B1 | Hard Rock Cafe | 3:44 |
| B2 | Time Alone | 2:37 |
| B3 | God Only Knows | 6:19 |
| B4 | To Know That I Love You | 3:31 |
| B5 | One | 5:04 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
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Description
Carole King's album "Simple Things" was released on July 1, 1977. This album marked a significant point in King's career as it was her first release on the Avatar/Capitol label after leaving Ode Records. Known for her profound impact on the singer-songwriter genre, Carole King had already established herself as a musical powerhouse with her earlier works, particularly the iconic "Tapestry" album.
"Simple Things" is an album that reflects King's consistent ability to craft songs that resonate with emotional depth and sincerity. The album was produced by Carole King herself, alongside Rick Evers, who was also her partner at the time. This collaboration brought a personal touch to the album, as Evers contributed to the songwriting process, co-writing several tracks with King.
The album opens with the title track "Simple Things," which sets the tone for the rest of the record with its gentle melodies and introspective lyrics. The song captures the essence of finding joy in life's uncomplicated moments, a theme that runs throughout the album. Another standout track is "Hold On," which showcases King's signature piano-driven sound and heartfelt vocal delivery.
One of the more upbeat tracks, "Hard Rock Cafe," became a minor hit and is perhaps the most well-known song from the album. Its catchy chorus and lively arrangement make it a memorable addition to King's discography. The song's title and theme were inspired by the famous chain of restaurants, adding a touch of pop culture relevance to the album.
Critically, "Simple Things" received mixed reviews upon its release. While some praised King's songwriting and the album's warm production, others felt it didn't quite reach the heights of her earlier work. Publications like Rolling Stone noted the album's pleasant sound but critiqued it for lacking the groundbreaking impact of "Tapestry." Despite this, King's loyal fanbase appreciated the album for its sincerity and the personal nature of the songs.
In terms of commercial performance, "Simple Things" did not achieve the same level of success as King's previous albums. However, it still managed to reach the Top 20 on the Billboard 200 chart, demonstrating King's enduring appeal. The album's moderate success was a testament to her established reputation and the continued interest in her music.
An interesting aspect of "Simple Things" is the influence of King's personal life on the album's content. Her relationship with Rick Evers, who was deeply involved in the album's creation, added a layer of intimacy to the songs. Unfortunately, their partnership was short-lived, as Evers passed away in 1978, making "Simple Things" a poignant reminder of their time together.
Overall, "Simple Things" is a reflective and heartfelt album that showcases Carole King's ability to connect with listeners through her honest and relatable songwriting. While it may not have reached the iconic status of her earlier work, it remains a cherished part of her discography for those who appreciate her unique voice and musical perspective. For fans of Carole King, "Simple Things" offers a glimpse into a more personal chapter of her life and career, making it a worthwhile listen for anyone interested in the evolution of one of music's most beloved singer-songwriters.
