Remembering Eric Carmen: A musical legacy of love and longing

Renowned singer-songwriter Eric Carmen, celebrated for his iconic ballad "All By Myself," has passed away at the age of 74, as confirmed by his wife. Carmen gained prominence as a member of the influential power pop ensemble, the Raspberries, before venturing into a successful solo career. His solo repertoire included the chart-topping "baby-making music" sensation "Hungry Eyes," a memorable contribution to the 1987 cult classic film Dirty Dancing. In a heartfelt statement on Carmen's official website, his wife Amy revealed that Eric peacefully passed away in his sleep, acknowledging the profound impact his music had on countless listeners over the decades:

"It is with tremendous sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Eric Carmen. Our sweet, loving and talented Eric passed away in his sleep, over the weekend. It brought him great joy to know, that for decades, his music touched so many and will be his lasting legacy. Please respect the family’s privacy as we mourn our enormous loss. ‘Love Is All That Matters...Faithful and Forever’."

She concluded her message with a poignant excerpt from his 1977 album Boats Against The Current. Born in Ohio, Carmen co-founded the Raspberries in the early 1970s alongside Jim Bonfanti and Wally Bryson, later joined by Dave Smalley following John Aleksic's departure. Their self-titled debut album in 1972 spawned hits like "Go All The Way," although it stirred controversy in the UK due to its suggestive lyrics, ultimately making its way onto the Guardians Of The Galaxy soundtrack in 2014. Following the band's dissolution in 1975, Carmen embarked on a solo journey, crafting enduring classics such as "All By Myself," later covered by Celine Dion, and prominently featured in the opening of Bridget Jones's Diary.

Notably, Carmen's songwriting prowess extended beyond his own performances, contributing hits like "Almost Paradise" from the Footloose soundtrack, and "Never Gonna Fall In Love Again" alongside "Make Me Lose Control." Soft rock fans and movie buffs have surely heard some of his stuff somewhere.