Eric Carmen, the celebrated singer-songwriter and the charismatic frontman of the pop-rock ensemble the Raspberries, has left us. His journey came to a peaceful end as he passed away in his sleep over the weekend, at the age of 74. This sorrowful news was shared by his wife, Amy Carmen, through a heartfelt message on his official website.
The loss of Eric Carmen is profoundly felt across the music world and beyond. “With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Eric Carmen. Our beloved Eric, a man of immense talent and kindness, has departed. His music, which brought joy to countless over the years, stands as his enduring legacy,” the statement expressed. The family has requested privacy during this time of profound grief.
No details regarding the cause of his demise have been disclosed. Efforts to reach out to Capitol Records, the Raspberries’ former label, for comments have been made.
Eric Carmen’s solo career saw him creating timeless hits that continue to resonate with audiences today. His debut solo album in 1975 featured “All By Myself,” a song that soared to the No. 2 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and has since been a staple in various iconic films including “To Die For” (1995), “Clueless,” “Almost Famous,” and “Bridget Jones’s Diary.”
In 1996, the legendary Celine Dion covered “All By Myself,” further cementing the song’s place in music history. Carmen’s songwriting prowess also brought us “Almost Paradise” from the Grammy-nominated “Footloose” soundtrack. Another hit, “Hungry Eyes,” gained widespread popularity through its inclusion in “Dirty Dancing,” spending 25 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 and peaking at No. 4. His 1988 hit “Make Me Lose Control” also climbed the charts, showcasing his consistent ability to capture the hearts of listeners.
Despite the Raspberries forming in the 1970s in Cleveland, Ohio, their music has endured, receiving renewed attention when their 1998 hit “Go All the Way” was featured in the “Guardians of the Galaxy” soundtrack.
Eric Carmen’s musical legacy is a testament to his extraordinary talent and the profound impact he had on the world of music. His melodies will continue to inspire and move us, echoing through the ages.