ERIC Carmen, the lead singer of The Raspberries, has died.
Carmen, 74, was the face of the popular pop-rock group in the 1970s and 1980s.
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He was the voice behind the fan favorites All by Myself and Never Gonna Fall in Love Again.
Carmen was also known as the star behind the hit Hungry Eyes popularized in Dirty Dancing and the master behind the theme song for Footloose.
The singer’s passing over the weekend 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.
“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 finished.
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 fan wrote.
“One of my all-time favorite artists! I will miss him tremendously, but his music will last forever,” a third said.
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