Karen Anne Carpenter (March 2, 1950 – February 4, 1983) was an American singer and drummer. She and her brother, Richard, formed the 1970s duo Carpenters, commonly called The Carpenters. Her skills as a drummer earned admiration from drumming luminaries and peers, although she is best known for her vocal performances. She had a contralto vocal range. She died at age 32 from heart failure.