US Singer-songwriter Eric Carmen has died aged 74.

The musician first rose to prominence as the lead vocalist of pop group The Raspberries, before going on to enjoy a successful solo career with hit songs ‘All By Myself’ and ‘Hungry Eyes’, the latter of which featured in the 1987 film Dirty Dancing.

Carmen also penned ‘Almost Paradise’ from the Footloose soundtrack."It is with tremendous sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Eric Carmen," said his wife Amy on the singer’s official website.

"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."

Damn. Another friend gone. RIP Eric Carmen. The Raspberries set a production standard we’re still trying to reach. Deepest love and condolences to Amy and the family.

— 🕉🇺🇦🟦Stevie Van Zandt☮️💙 (@StevieVanZandt) March 12, 2024

The Ohio native founded the Raspberries with Wally Bryson and Jim Bonfanti, later joined by Dave Smalley. Their self-titled debut album came out in 1972. ‘Go All The Way’, a song from the record, was banned by the BBC for sexually suggestive lyrical content, and later went on to feature on Marvel hit movie Guardians Of The Galaxy.

The Raspberries split in 1975, leaving Carmen to embark on a solo career as leading soft-rock songwriter.

“Awful News,” said KISS guitarist Paul Stanley on X. “Eric Carmen has died. Although known to many for writing radio hits like ‘All By Myself’ and others, Eric was a true rocker at heart. His voice had elements of McCartney and Steve Marriott. The Raspberries did shows with us. A killer band live & I loved their records.”

"The loss of Eric Carmen really hurts," said author Stephen King, also on X.  "The Raspberries were the best power pop group ever. 'Ecstasy' was my favorite."