Remembering the singer-songwriter Eric Carmen
He wrote and originally released one of the biggest hits of the 1970’s “All by Myself”
Remembering the singer-songwriter Eric Carmen
Eric Carmen was born on August 11, 1949, in Cleveland, Ohio. Raised in a musically inclined family, Carmen showed an early interest in music. He began playing piano at age two and later took up violin. His passion for music continued to grow, and he was heavily influenced by classical composers like Rachmaninoff, as well as rock and roll icons like The Beatles. Carmen attended John Carroll University in Cleveland but left to pursue a career in music.
Eric Carmen’s professional music career began in the 1960s when he joined various bands, eventually becoming a member of the Cleveland-based group Cyrus Erie. However, his first taste of significant success came in the early 1970s as the lead singer, songwriter, and guitarist of the power pop band The Raspberries. The band became known for its blend of rock and pop, and they achieved commercial success with hits like “Go All the Way,” “I Wanna Be with You,” and “Let’s Pretend.” “Go All the Way” became one of their most famous songs, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1972.
Despite the band’s success, The Raspberries disbanded in 1975, and Carmen embarked on a solo career that would bring him even greater recognition.
Eric Carmen’s solo career took off with the release of his self-titled debut album in 1975. The album featured the hit single “All by Myself,” a power ballad that Carmen composed based on a theme from Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2. The song became a massive hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying Carmen’s reputation as a talented songwriter and performer. His follow-up single, “Never Gonna Fall in Love Again,” also enjoyed success, further establishing him as a prominent figure in the music industry.
Throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, Carmen continued to release successful albums and singles, including “She Did It,” “Hungry Eyes” (from the Dirty Dancing soundtrack), and “Make Me Lose Control.” His music often featured a blend of rock, pop, and classical influences, showcasing his versatility as a musician.
In addition to his solo work, Carmen wrote and produced songs for other artists, further cementing his influence in the music industry. His ability to craft emotionally resonant melodies made him a sought-after songwriter.
While Carmen’s commercial success waned somewhat in the 1990s, he remained active in the music industry, occasionally reuniting with The Raspberries for concerts and tours. The band reunited in 2004 for a series of performances that were well-received by fans and critics alike.
Despite continuing to write and licensing music, Eric Carmen didn’t tour since 2009. He passed away at age 74 on March 11th, 2024.
Watch the 1976 music video “All By Myself” by Eric Carmen
Look back at the 1987 music video “Hungry Eyes” by Eric Carmen
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