Anticipation

The Zoo Crew is spinning Carly Simon's "Anticipation," a timeless track from her 1971 album of the same name, and the Zoo Freaks are surely vibing to its soulful groove. This song has a fascinating origin story: Carly Simon wrote it in just 15 minutes while waiting for Cat Stevens to show up for a dinner date at her New York City apartment. Stevens, running late after a show, inspired Simon to pick up her guitar and channel her nervous energy into the song’s introspective lyrics, mimicking the style of Stevens’ "Hard Headed Woman." She even tested it out at a concert with him soon after, and the crowd’s enthusiastic response confirmed its magic. The song’s chorus, with its iconic “Anticipation, anticipation, is makin’ me late, is keepin’ me waitin’,” became so synonymous with waiting that Heinz Ketchup used it in commercials starting in 1974, humorously depicting the slow pour of their thick ketchup from glass bottles. Simon initially hesitated about licensing the song, worried it might cheapen its artistry, but the deal provided financial security after the birth of her daughter, Sally, with James Taylor.

Beyond its commercial fame, "Anticipation" carries a deeper philosophical weight. Simon crafted the lyrics as a meditation on living in the moment, rather than obsessing over an uncertain future. Lines like “stay right here ’cause these are the good old days” reflect her realization that dwelling on what’s next can rob you of the present. The song’s lush production, featuring Andy Newmark’s dynamic drumming and Paul Glanz’s lyrical piano, elevates its emotional depth, making it a standout in Simon’s catalog. Fans on X have noted its nostalgic pull, with posts recalling how it evokes the 1970s or even roller-skating rinks, while others highlight its connection to Stevens, underscoring its enduring cultural footprint. An acoustic version recorded with her son, Ben Taylor, for her 2009 album Never Been Gone, shows the song’s versatility, and its use in a 2018 ABC promo for The Connors further cemented its pop culture legacy.

Carly Simon’s journey to stardom began in a musically rich household in New York City, born on June 25, 1943. Her father, a co-founder of Simon & Schuster, was a pianist, and her mother was a singer and civil rights activist, fostering a creative environment where Simon and her siblings were steeped in music. She and her sister Lucy performed as the Simon Sisters in the 1960s, releasing albums like Meet the Simon Sisters, which included the minor hit "Winkin’, Blinkin’ and Nod." After Lucy left the duo, Simon briefly collaborated with Elephant’s Memory but found the club scene grueling, losing her voice to poor sound systems and smoky venues. Her solo career took off in 1971 with her self-titled debut album, featuring the hit "That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be," which earned her a Grammy nomination. The release of Anticipation later that year, with its title track and Grammy win for Best New Artist, solidified her as a leading voice in the singer-songwriter era, alongside peers like Joni Mitchell and Carole King.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper into Carly Simon’s world, her official website, www.carlysimon.com, offers lyrics, discography, and updates. You can connect with her on social media via Facebook, Instagram, and X, where she shares memories and interacts with fans. Fan communities thrive online, including the Carly Simon Fans Facebook group, a vibrant space for devotees to discuss her music and legacy. Another fan-driven hub, carlysimon.net, provides detailed discographies and news for those obsessed with her work. Whether you’re grooving to "Anticipation" or exploring her catalog, Simon’s artistry continues to resonate with fans old and new.