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American singer Eric Carmen, celebrated for his global hit All by Myself, which later found a new audience through Céline Dion’s rendition, has passed away at the age of 74, his spouse announced on Tuesday, March 12, 2024. The location of his passing was not disclosed.

Amy Carmen, spouse of Eric Carmen who was mostly renowned for his song All by Myself, has announced the singer’s death, publishing an official statement on his official website. “Our sweet, loving and immensely talented Eric passed away in his sleep over the weekend. He was profoundly gratified to know that his music resonated with so many across decades and that it will endure in their memories,” she conveyed in her statement. Amy Carmen has also implored fans to “respect the family’s privacy as we grieve our significant loss.” The cause of death remains unspecified.

Born in 1949 in Cleveland, Ohio, Eric Carmen embarked on his musical journey by co-founding the 1970s rock ensemble, The Raspberries, which disbanded after five years. The group’s debut album was notably accompanied by a scratch-and-sniff sticker redolent of raspberries. In 2004, the band reunited for a tour that culminated in the release of a live album in 2017, titled Raspberries Pop Art Live.

Eric Carmen is predominantly renowned for his 1975 rendition of All by Myself and Hungry Eyes, featured in the soundtrack of the widely acclaimed film Dirty Dancing (1987) starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. His track Almost Paradise, co-written for the film Footloose, garnered him a Grammy Award nomination. A diverse array of artists have covered his hits, including Céline Dion (All by Myself), Shaun Cassidy (That’s Rock ‘n Roll) and John Travolta (Never Gonna Fall in Love Again), attesting to his enduring influence and the versatile appeal of his music.

Throughout his illustrious career, Eric Carmen established himself as a quintessential figure in the landscape of American pop and rock music. His journey from the frontman of The Raspberries to a celebrated solo artist is marked by a succession of hits that showcased his exceptional prowess as a songwriter and vocalist. Beyond his notable singles, Carmen’s ability to craft songs that resonated with a wide audience led to his music being featured in several iconic films, further cementing his legacy in the annals of music history. His contributions extended beyond the charts, as he became known for his heartfelt ballads and catchy tunes that captured the complexity of love and longing. Eric Carmen’s impact on music is indelible, with a legacy that spans genres and generations. His achievements, including a Grammy nomination and the enduring popularity of his work across various artists and mediums, reflect a career that was not only successful but also profoundly influential in shaping the soundscape of contemporary music.

With AFP