The acclaimed singer-songwriter, Eric Carmen, renowned for his enduring hits such as “All By Myself” and “Hungry Eyes,” has passed away at age 74.

The news was confirmed by his wife, Amy Carmen, in a heartfelt statement on his official website. She revealed that Carmen died peacefully in his sleep on March 10, 2024. His lifetime contributions to music, marked by his emotive depth and melodic expertise, have left an enduring legacy enjoyed by fans and fellow musicians.

Eric Carmen was born in the eastern suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, in 1949. He gained fame as the lead singer of the influential power-pop band, Raspberries, in the early 1970s. The band, with hits like “Go All the Way” and “I Wanna Be With You,” encapsulated the spirit of youthful emotion and romance through their memorable melodies and rich harmonies. After the band split in the mid-1970s, Carmen went out on his own.

His solo career began with remarkable success. His debut single, “All By Myself,” achieved the number two spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and sold over a million copies, earning a gold certificate from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

His subsequent hit, “Never Gonna Fall in Love Again,” highlighted his unique ability to blend classical components with modern pop, a defining characteristic of his songwriting. Carmen’s musical accomplishments continued into the late 1970s and 1980s, providing a rich collection of songs that other artists, including Shaun Cassidy, covered with great success.

A significant moment in Carmen’s career was his contribution to the 1984 “Footloose” soundtrack with “Almost Paradise,” a collaboration with Mike Reno and Ann Wilson. His participation in the 1987 “Dirty Dancing” soundtrack, including the hit “Hungry Eyes,” considerably boosted his career, cementing his place in the music industry. The 1988 song “Make Me Lose Control” further demonstrated his continued relevance and adaptability in the evolving music landscape.

Throughout his career, Carmen showed considerable versatility, not only through his involvement in iconic soundtracks but also through his enduring hits that exhibited his depth as a lyricist and composer. His music, known for its emotional depth and unforgettable melodies, won him a wide audience across different generations.

Apart from his chart successes, Carmen’s influence was felt in live performances, notably during a tour with Ringo Starr’s All Starr Band in 2000. His dedication to music was evident in the release of “Brand New Year” in 2013, his first new track in almost 15 years, which was part of a best-of compilation.

In her tribute, Amy Carmen poignantly cited her husband’s song “Love Is All That Matters,” encapsulating the essence of his life’s work and philosophy: “Love Is All That Matters… Faithful and Forever.” Carmen’s message of love and his lasting musical legacy continue to inspire and resonate with people worldwide.

Carmen is survived by his wife, Amy, and his two children from a previous marriage, Clayton and Kathryn.