Eric Carmen, famed for hits like “All By Myself” and “Hungry Eyes,” has died at 74. His wife, Amy Carmen, announced on his website that he died in his sleep over the weekend. The cause of death wasn’t revealed.
Eric Carmen started his music career in the 1970s with the Raspberries. He helped create hits like “Go All the Way,” a controversial yet iconic song. After the band split in 1975, their rock-pop blend paved the way for his solo success.
Eric Carmen’s solo career soared with “All By Myself” in 1975, mixing classical and pop elements. The song, like “Never Gonna Fall in Love Again,” solidified his status as a power ballad expert. “Hungry Eyes” from the 1987 “Dirty Dancing” soundtrack showcased his lasting appeal, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Throughout his career, various artists covered Carmen’s songs, further proving his songwriting prowess. Celine Dion’s rendition of “All By Myself” in 1996 brought a new generation of listeners to Carmen’s work.
Eric Carmen’s talents extended beyond singing; he wrote “Almost Paradise” for the “Footloose” soundtrack, highlighting his songwriting versatility.
Despite fading from the spotlight, Eric Carmen’s legacy endures in film music and its ongoing impact on fans and musicians.
Fans revisited and celebrated his work with the Raspberries, leading the band to briefly reunite for live performances in the mid-2000s.
His wife, Amy, and their two children, Clayton and Kathryn, survive Eric Carmen. Eric Carmen’s death ends an era for his ballad and anthem fans, yet his music remains a lasting legacy of his talent and industry impact.