"For All We Know" is a popular song originally written for the 1970 film Lovers and Other Strangers by Fred Karlin, Robb Wilson (Robb Royer) and Arthur James (Jimmy Griffin). It was originally performed by Larry Meredith.
It gained popularity when it was heard by Richard Carpenter of The Carpenters during an evening of relaxation at the movies while on tour. Upon hearing the song, Carpenter decided it would be ideal for the duo to record, and it became a hit for them in 1971, reaching #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart. The song also spent three weeks at #1 on the U.S. adult contemporary chart.
The song then went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song, though the Carpenters were not allowed to perform the song at the ceremony as they had not appeared in a film. At their request, the song was performed by British singer Petula Clark. In tribute to Karen Carpenter, Clark performed the song in concert on February 6, 1983.
In 1972, Richard and Karen appeared on Tom Jones' "Special London Bridge Special", where they performed a reprise to "For All We Know." It was never released to the public until 2000, with the release of "The Singles: 1969-1981."
The song became a hit in the UK in a version released by Shirley Bassey in 1971. It peaked at No.6 during a 24-week chart run.
Download this sheet!