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American soft rock duo of siblings Richard and Karen Carpenter, renowned for their melodic pop ballads and Karen's distinctive contralto vocals. Formed in 1969 in Downey, California. Released 10 studio albums, won 3 Grammy Awards, and sold over 100 million records worldwide. Pioneered a smooth, melodic sound that dominated 1970s pop charts before disbanding after Karen's death.

• Karen Carpenter was one of rock's few female drummer-vocalists, often performing both roles simultaneously during early shows.
• The duo faced criticism for their 'clean-cut' image during the counterculture era but became one of the best-selling acts of the 1970s.
• Karen secretly battled anorexia nervosa for years, exacerbated by media scrutiny about her weight. She died at 32 from heart failure related to the eating disorder.
• Richard struggled with Quaalude addiction during their peak fame, entering rehab in 1979. He later became a music archivist and tribute performer.
• Their song 'Superstar' (1971) was initially rejected by multiple artists; it became a Grammy-nominated hit after they recorded it.