ERIC Carmen, the lead singer of The Raspberries, has died at the age of 74.
The beloved frontman, whose solo hits include All By Myself and Never Gonna Fall in Love Again, died in his sleep over the weekend, his wife confirmed on Monday.
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The 70s power pop icon was behind the hit Hungry Eyes popularized in Dirty Dancing as well as being the master behind the theme song for Footloose.
His band The Raspberries was more recently embraced by a new generation when its 40-year-old single Go All the Way was included on the soundtrack of the film Guardians of the Galaxy.
News of Carmen’s death was shared by his wife in a message on his website on Monday.
“It is with tremendous sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Eric Carmen,” Amy Carmen wrote.
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“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.”
Eric Carmen’s Biggest Hits
- All by Myself
- Change of Heart
- She Did It
- Hungry Eyes
- Boats Against the Current
- Make Me Lose Control
- Never Gonna Fall in Love Again
- Sunrise
- Go All the Way
- Love Is All That Matters
Amy’s message is a nod to Love Is All That Matters, a romantic song from Carmen’s 1977 solo album entitled Boats Against the Current.
The cause and circumstances of his death have not been made public.
Carmen led The Raspberries to fame before kicking off an incredible solo career that made him a household name across the country.
Trained as a classical pianist and self-taught on guitar, Carmen co-founded the group with Jim Bonfanti, Wally Bryson, and Dave Smalley while the crew was studying at John Carroll University, according to TheWrap.com.
Tributes have been pouring in for the late star since his death was announced on Monday.
“I’m utterly crushed. What a huge influence his music has been in my life,” one fan commented on Facebook.
“Thank you Eric for the music and the memories. Your music was a big influence on me since I was 15 and I even used “I was born to love you” as our wedding waltz. Such a musical talent, you will never be forgotten,” another wrote.
“One of my all-time favorite artists! I will miss him tremendously, but his music will last forever,” a third said.
“So sorry to all his family. His music got me through a lot of tough times in Life. Rest Easy Eric,” a fourth fan added.
Carmen is survived by his wife Amy and their two children, Clayton and Kathryn.
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