Carole King’s “Beautiful”: An Anthem of Inner Beauty and Self-Esteem
Released on her 1971 award-winning album Tapestry, Carole King’s song “Beautiful” is a timeless anthem that celebrates the essence of inner beauty and self-esteem. Written spontaneously by King, this song reflects a profound moment of realization during a ride on the New York City Subway. The way she perceived others mirrored her own feelings, a sentiment that resonates deeply within the lyrics of this iconic track.
“Beautiful” is not merely a song; it is a reflection of King’s introspective journey and her understanding of human nature. According to King, the song came to her effortlessly, almost as if it were a natural extension of her thoughts. This spontaneity is evident in the song’s structure, where she initially overlooked some professional details like the lack of rhyme in the refrain. Yet, this raw and unrefined quality adds to the song’s authenticity and charm.
Musically, “Beautiful” is an uptempo track with a vibrant and uplifting melody. The song features King’s signature piano playing, accompanied by synthesizer, bass guitar by Charles Larkey, drums by Joel O’Brien, and conga drums by Danny Kortchmar. Despite some criticism of the synthesizer’s synthetic sound, which author James Perone believes detracts slightly from the song’s emphasis on authenticity, the overall instrumentation is both engaging and supportive of the song’s message.
The lyrics of “Beautiful” are a poignant reminder of the importance of self-esteem and a positive outlook. Rolling Stone Magazine critic Jon Landau describes it as a song that captures the essence of optimism and the transformative power of inner beauty. The verses paint a picture of unhappy people observed by the singer, set against a minor key and a straightforward rhythm, sung at a relatively low pitch. This contrast is strikingly emphasized in the refrain, which shifts to a major key with a syncopated rhythm and a higher pitch, reinforcing the theme of self-worth and positivity.
“Beautiful” stands out on the Tapestry album, not just for its musicality but for its powerful message. The song’s refrain, “You’ve got to get up every morning with a smile on your face and show the world all the love in your heart,” is a call to action for listeners to embrace their inner beauty and face the world with confidence and grace.
The song has transcended its original release, finding new life in covers by artists like Barbra Streisand and Richard Marx, and being featured on several of King’s live albums. It also became the title song for the 2014 Broadway musical Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, further cementing its legacy in popular culture.
Carole King’s “Beautiful” is more than just a song; it is a testament to the enduring power of self-love and the beauty that comes from within. Its timeless appeal continues to inspire and uplift, reminding us all that true beauty is not in outward appearances but in our hearts and spirits.