Roger Nichols, Songwriter Behind Classic Carpenters Hits, Dies at 84

Roger Nichols, the celebrated songwriter known for co-writing iconic Carpenters songs such as “We’ve Only Just Begun,” “Rainy Days and Mondays,” and “I Won’t Last a Day Without You,” passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025, at the age of 84.

His longtime songwriting partner, Paul Williams, announced Nichols’ death on Instagram, sharing that Nichols died at home surrounded by his wife Terry and their daughters Claire and Caitlin, whom he adored.

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Williams reflected on their partnership, which began in the mid-1960s when they were paired by Herb Alpert’s A&M Records.

Nichols composed melodies while Williams wrote lyrics, producing a string of beloved hits not only for the Carpenters but also for artists like Three Dog Night.

Roger Nichols once explained that their breakthrough hit, “We’ve Only Just Begun,” started as a bank commercial jingle, later expanded into a full song that became a signature for the Carpenters.

Though hugely successful, Nichols stepped away from the music industry years ago to pursue a quieter life.

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Williams described Nichols’ choice to leave songwriting to follow “another dream” — fishing and living by a river in Montana.

A touching moment Williams shared was Nichols walking his daughter Caitlin down the aisle in a wheelchair at her wedding in September 2024.

Nichols’ daughters also paid tribute, celebrating their father’s many talents — from violinist to jeweler — and his deep love for family, creativity, and life.

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