Icon QUIT Singing at his PEAK Cuz He HATED OWN Voice…Waged HUGE Comeback in 1987!-Professor of Rock
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- Опубліковано 20 бер 2024
- RIP Eric Carmen… the iconic artist who sang the lead vocal on several, iconic classics, but he never liked his voice. His dream wasn’t to be a singer… In fact, he was a child prodigy who began his classic training as a violinist and pianist, but that all changed when he saw the Beatles on Ed Sullivan. Eric Carmen became the frontman for a short-lived, yet highly influential band named Raspberries, composed the smash Go All the Way that was banned by the BBC, and when he embarked on a solo career… his first hit, All By Myself, became his first hit, a timeless, emotional masterpiece. Then… he left the limelight to concentrate on just being a songwriter, but he was convinced to sing someone else’s song for a movie nobody believed in. That song was Hungry Eyes. It would forge his comeback and set up another hit after that… Make Me Lose Control. We pay tribute and tell the story behind three of the greatest hits of this late great, truly gifted artist …NEXT on Professor of Rock.
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Hey music junkies, Professor of Rock, always here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest songs of all time. If you remember the TV movies of the week from back in the day, you’ll dig this channel of deep musical nostalgia. Make sure to subscribe below right now. and click the bell so you always know when our latest and greatest shows come out. We also have a Patreon you'll want to check out. There you’ll find an additional catalog of exclusive content and you can even become an honorary producer to help us curate this music history.
By the time he was 3 years old, the featured artist in this episode was recognized as a “musical prodigy. His aptitude for music was so apparent that his parents enrolled him in the prestigious Preparatory Division of the Cleveland Institute to study piano and violin. Before he turned 6, he was learning to play the violin from his aunt Muriel, who was a violinist with the Cleveland Orchestra.
Throughout his adolescence, he was surrounded by classical music. But on February 9th, 1964, at age 14, he saw The Beatles' historical appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show, and he contracted an unshakeable case of Rock n’ Roll fever, and developed a burning desire to be on stage, perform his own songs, just like the Fab Four. About 8 years later…..his dream came true.
This is a tribute to this very talented, ambitious singer, lyricist, and musician named Eric Carmen, who passed away on Monday, March 11th, 2024, and.. the story behind a few of his greatest hits.
Eric Carmen worked his way to the national spotlight as the lead singer & frontman for the Raspberries, a name that came to them in a moment of exasperation when Eric threw up his hands and yelled out “Awwww raspberries!” Just like the “little rascals” used to say on the black & white TV series, Our Gang from the 30’s:
The Cleveland-based quintet was only around for about 4 years, but they made a big splash, with some clever gimmicks and irresistibly pop songs. Not only was Eric recognized as a budding lyricist, he was a bonafide teen heartthrob.
The self-titled debut Raspberries LP included one of the best Eric Carmen tunes, and one of the most iconic pop hits of the 70s…the Top 5 smash “Go All the Way,” that blasts off with a monster guitar riff and an urgent blast of... - Розваги
Poll: What Musician Death hit you the hardest?
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I asked my grandmother once what the hardest part of getting older was. She said it was watching your childhood heroes age and pass as you get deeper into adulthood. I’m beginning to believe she was right. RIP Eric Carmen. I’m so thankful for all you gave us.
I know what you mean.
That’s the truth.
Omg yes. I’m 60, and loved 60s and 70s music as a youngster, and of course 80s and on. There will be heartbreak ahead.
Agreed.
OTOH, I'm glad that folks are living good lives longer. When I was a kid, 74 was old and anything above 80 was ancient. Look at Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr at 81 and 83 respectively. Mike Love is still touring at 83 and still sounds like a kid when he sings. Brian Wilson is 81 and still active. Mick Jagger still kicks butt at 80. Cher, Ann and Nancy Wilson, Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and many other folks I grew up listening to are in their 70s, and none of them seem "old."
Yes, I agree with your grandmother. 😢
In the 90’s I installed a phone line in his house. Of course there was an incredible white grand piano in his living room. I read the name on the order and thought there’s no way. He answered the door and all I could say was It is you! He just smiled and said It is me. While I was there he offered me some water and made sure not to hover as I did my work. He was so grounded, charismatic, funny and just an amazing person. You never heard of him being a diva, he just lived a quiet life in a Cleveland suburb. BTW my older sister has the original Raspberry’s album. No, it doesn’t smell anymore but it did last a couple of years. I’m glad that I have such a great memory of him. Rest in peace Eric. You will be sorely missed.
Did he have a fancy house?
Great memory. 😊
Cool story, thank you for sharing! I really enjoyed his music, RIP Mr. Carmen
So cool🎉❤🎉❤🎉
1 word: WOW
Professor, Eric was the reason I got my first kiss! When I was 15 my guitar teacher put 4 kids together as a band. (2 guitars, bass and drums) I was lead guitar and lead vocals. It was for a recital and were were the final act with three songs. Well, we snuck in a 4th song for an encore without the teachers knowledge! The crowd (mostly family) went nuts when we played Go All the Way as the encore song and I got a kiss from a real cutie after the show! I told Eric this on Twitter and we became good Twitter friends! So sad that he left us!
What a great story!!! I can't believe you haven't gotten more LIKES.
What a fantastic anecdote..❤ Lucky you 😊
Eric Carmen had a gorgeous voice, but he didn't grace us with enough of it. RIP Eric.
I agree. Thanks for the comment.
Truly sad. What an amazing voice..
Yes, he had a great voice. Probably one of the more underrated voices of rock and roll.
Just checked my Raspberries LP from 1972. Yes, the scratch n sniff cover still smells like raspberries after 50+ years!
Love it! Thank you for checking!!!
Great 😮
I envy you.😢😢😢
Is that good or bad, though?😉😆
Mine too!
Eric Carmen is DEAD?! And his death was LAST WEEK?! There was NOTHING announced that he’d passed away! I’m a little heartbroken…. I’ve loved listening to his music and his voice. Yet another reminder that we’re ALL getting old. Rest in Peace, Mr Carmen. Your voice and your songs will be remembered through time eternal. 😢
These things pop up in my Facebook news feeds all the time. I saw he passed away the day after. Sad that we lost another one from our time.
Radio and TV don't inform much anymore- at least not about things like that.
I missed it, too. What a talent. I absolutely love "Hungry Eyes" and nearly all of the Dirty Dancing soundtrack. RIP, Eric.
I read on CNN last week. So sad.
This is the first I'm hearing of his death also. 😢
The uncut version of "All By Myself" was simply breathtaking
I only recently found the transcription to that and play it myself these days. I am thrilled to find out only recently that it was Eric himself playing it!
I always yelled at the radio anytime they played the chopped-up shortened version. Masterpiece.
The pop stations where I grew up often played the album version. The single version seemed so empty in comparison.
I have it on a 45 😅
I absolutely hated Celine Dion's cover, as it didn't have the emotion of the original. You could feel Eric Carmen's anguish down to your toes 💔
I was working at Denny's in the 80s and wound up sitting in a booth next to me and read me my horoscope. We just sat there chatting it was so lovely. I thanked him for the contributions he made to my life when he got up to leave. He is missed.
Few years ago I posted a supportive comment to one of Eric's posts on Twitter. I don't even remember what the topic was, but to my surprise he sent me a private message thanking me. I replied that I really appreciated his music and thought his debut solo album was a masterpiece. He replied with thanks and added, "I guess I'm kinda proud of that one." Struck me as a genuine and humble guy.
That's so cool.
Eric was a great guy, and yes, humble. It's great he replied to you. A memory that will stay with you.
I followed him on Twitter, also. He was a staunch, traditional conservative.
Professor of Rock needs to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Love his enthusiasm and historical knowledge.
Thanks!
He should create his own, online Rock Museum, History, site with a membership fee. So good artists get the nod, and junk stays in the other place.
He should at least be curating it and be on the selection committee. Need someone who actually knows which artist deserves to be in.
What about K.C. Kaysem. Without him not sure rock would've prevailed.
He does a good job of looking stuff up..but there are already too many people in the R&R Hall.
I was a 70s rock guy who absolutlely LOVED Eric Carmen. The news of his recent passing is just annother reminder that time is a bastard.
When I heard Eric Carmen had died, I started bawling like a baby. I loved his voice and I loved his songs. It was almost as though he had three musical careers. I will miss him dearly...
My favorite Eric Carmen song is never gonna fall in love again. He was a great singer. R.I.P. Eric Carmen.
Great song indeed.
I didn't like the Chorus Melody, but the Verses on that song are SUBLIME!
That's Rockn Roll is my favorite
That's my favorite Eric Carmen song, too. RIP Eric.
I waited his table several times around 2015. He always had a smile, and treated everyone with kindness. Encountering him, people would never have known of his fame. He didn't expect anything extra and just appeared as a regular guy. Theat was the part that made it special for me. Just a nice guy. Glad I met him. But then again, I am glad when I meet most people, good experiences are all around us. One last "Thank You" to Eric Carmen!
When I heard he died, I died a little bit myself. As a frontman for a long time, I admired Eric and never thought he got his due respect.
"Turn the radio up for that sweet sound...." .......indeed, Mr. Carmen, indeed.
His voice was so beautiful. Clear like a crystal bell. He was easy to have a crush on ,so good looking and so talented.
I used to think the song was “Please go away” … what a difference ;)
I did too!
🤣
I always thought it said "Please, don't go away"
Yes, I thought the same exact thing!
Me too!
Eric Carmen had a great voice and was an amazing songwriter!! So much talent that never got the recognition he deserved!! R.I.P.
I agree. So underrated. What's your favorite song by him?
@@ProfessorofRock I like Almost Paradise and Hey Deanie!! Hey Deanie is one of the last Bubble Gum songs I remember being popular!!
He was unjustly underrated.
I love Go All the Way, maybe because it's from a girl's pov. I sing All By Myself at work all the time. Everyone gets to work in groups but there's never anyone available to help me. Lol, I tell myself it's because I'm so awesome I don't need anyone's help. 😁
Wow will miss him.Thank God 4 cds etc
Being over 60, all the greats from music I loved are starting to pass. Was so sad to hear of Eric's passing. Had The Raspberries LP and loved his songs. Another great voice joins the heavenly choir.
Love how you stay current with what's going on and honor those that have passed away recently. I always thought that Eric Carmen could have been much more famous than he was..
This explains a lot
Just LOVED ERIC CARMEN 😂🎉😢😊😮❤
I was a teenager in the summer of ‘72 when Go All The Way came out. I distinctly remember hearing this song blasting out of my transistor radio while lying on the beach. Good memories.
What a RIFF! Underappreciated as far as great badass guitar riffs.
Its an instantaneous "turn it up loud"!
Same! Coming of age in n the '70's. I had every album and sang along. Raspberries had great harmonies. Loved the inclusion of classical music in his mix. About a year ago I brought it all back through streaming after hearing a cut on a radio program. Music is such a gift.
Thanks for the posthumous feature. It was a great tribute.
For sure. What was your favorite song by him?
It was Go All the Way.
"Go All the Way" will always be special for me. Summer of '72, just ready to graduate high school. I was 17, she was 16, we did, and it was beautiful. Even though it ended a year later, I'll always love that girl.
Underated artist.R I P Eric .
Definitely
My first concert, with my bestie Elizabeth, both of us 13 years old, was Eric Carmen opening for Sweet. It was a great show and both of us remember different things about it. RIP Eric. Thanks for the amazing music. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Not one word? A true music icon in my opinion. A HOF must! RIP Eric Carmen.
I know...I guess the media is too busy telling us what the Kardashians are up to.
Eric Carmen was a voice I knew from the 70's with 'All By Myself' and knew of his songs for other artists. He truly honored me by following me back on Twitter a few short years ago. All I tweeted to him was how I thought his song 'All By Myself' was still a great song, after all these years...
Thanks for remembering an artist who probably wasn't as appreciated as he should have been...
I completely missed that Eric passed, what an incredible vocalist and composer. I had wondered why he had disappeared from music for so many years, now I know. Rest in Peace Mr. Carmen All By Myself was always one of my absolute favorites.
All By Myself is so powerful.
There’s just nothing like taking these rides with Adam back to my hay day. I graduated high school in 1985, so 99% of these episodes bring back special moments throughout my life. I never know what forgotten moments will reawaken when I watch a new episode. Thanks so very much my friend!
👍🏻🤘🏻✌🏼😊
Same!
I hope that for the next generation, Adam's telling these stories of the classics from our time and beyond, plucks the same nostalgic heartstrings as does hearing Casey Kasem on America's Top 40 does for our generation. Adam, you are truly a gem. Thank you for sharing this beautiful tribute for one of the rock era's most overlooked performers, Eric Carmen.
Oh wow, you graduated high school the exact same year I did!!
I graduated in '86 and this is the only channel I watch daily 💫
Adam, being born and raised on the North coast and a fan of Eric Carmen since first hearing him, this one hit incredibly close to home. I'm crying again as i have at every tribute since his passing. Thank you for an excellent tribute. Rest in Peace, Eric.
💔😢😢❤
Canadians know a good thing when we hear it. I owned a good portion of his hits as a kid and played them till I wore out the needle on the record player. So sorry to see him go. A wonderful talent.
Thanks for mentioning, “Let’s Pretend”. I too always thought that it should have been a bigger hit. I was beginning to think that I was the only one who remembered it. 😢RIP EC
Thanks for the Music ❤
It's a odd thing to hear one's voice on tape. I get it!
I have the scratch & sniff album. I bought it a thousand years ago and the scent of raspberries is still strong. I found out that Eric passed away last week. He is my most favorite male singer since I was a preteen. I was so heartbroken. 💔
Like so many others here, I had not heard of his passing. A lot of his earlier stuff I had to learn about decades later in the 90's. I do vividly remember when Dirty Dancing came out! We rented that VHS so many times that my dad just bought us our own copy, saying he'd save more money that way (& wishing he'd done it sooner). I was obsessed w/ "Hungry Eyes" even though I was still a little young. I just loved it more as I got older & could appreciate it better. I still think that song is sexy. It's the song that made me check out his older stuff. I did like the Raspberries but "All by Myself" is one of my all-time favorite songs. The music was beautiful, epic even. The lyrics hit you in the heart. His voice expressed so much emotion. I'm shocked that he didn't like his own voice. Thank you for doing this episode. R.I.P. Eric Carmen & thank you for the music you made.
Thank you so much for spotlighting Eric Carmen. He was one-of-a-kind and although he had his share of top-40 hits, both with the Raspberries and as a solo artist, his success should have been so much more than what it was. Manilow, Joel, John….and Eric Carmen should be right up there with them.
He was such a talent. What's your favorite song by him?
@@ProfessorofRock my favorite Raspberries song is “Let’s Pretend,” and because I love classical music, my favorite solo song of EC is “All By Myself.”
No joke-two weeks ago, I was on a cruise, and the piano bar entertainer and I were discussing Eric Carmen’s talent and brilliance as a songwriter. A few days later, he passed. His music is truly a gift to us all.
He was underappreciated.
RIP Eric. The Raspberries were up there with the Beatles, the Byrds and all of the other bands that layered simple melodies and gorgeous harmonies over straightforward rock riffs to make beautiful music. "Go All The Way" is iconic, but Eric's breadth of musical prowess crosses genres and generations. But let's be thankful of the music that he did leave behind. Your are in our hearts, Eric.
How could nothing zero zip nada of Eric's passing been mentioned in the news? He was such a talented songwriter musician. Thanks for the memories. Rest in peace.😢💔🕊
My favourite Eric Carmen song was “Boats Against the Current” which was inspired by a line from THE GREAT GATSBY. My introduction to Eric Carmen’s songwriting came when I heard Shaun Cassidy sing “That’s Rock and Roll” and “Hey Deanie”. Boy, I miss the 1970s.
I loved She did it from this LP
I just wrote a reply to this video saying Boats Against The Current is one of the all-time BEST breakup songs. IAnd I liked his voice and version but really like Olivia Newton Johns cover of it.
@@richardshirley1596 Frankie Valli also did a great cover of Boats Against The Current.
I’ve been listening to The Raspberries since Eric Carmen’s passing. Overnight Sensation I can’t get out of my head. Not only a great songwriter but an underrated singer with a gorgeous voice. RIP Eric and thank you for the songs.😊
Overnight Sensation is a great song!
This is one Adam that should have been done while he was still alive a few years ago so we could have heard you interview him.
What a loss?
Not sure what his health was like in the last year or 2 but the statement from his wife made it sound like it wasn’t sudden or unexpected.
R.I.P. Eric Carmen, now you get to share your music gifts with God: voice, piano, violin, guitar, and songwriting.
❤🎉
RIP Eric Carmen.
Great great voice.
Sadly, never got to see him in concert......... the quality of the music would have been worth it.
Thanks Professor!
You're the best.
❤
It would have been so cool.
This one really hurt me. So very sad. Thx for shining some light on our rock and roll hero professor. It was like a ray of light at "Sunrise". Everyone please listen to "boats against the current". I always heard that it was his favorite song he wrote. Listening to it now will make you cry. The opening line, I know it's over, you know it's over... Rest peacefully Eric. We missed you the moment your feet left the ground. Fond farewell!
Thanks for the comment!
i agree it’s a very moving song great ballad and album it’s one of my personal favorites eric is also my hero
At first, we all thought it was "Don't Go Away." That's sure what it sounds like! RIP, Eric.
Talk about a man who could create ear worms!!! I gess I was born in the right era, 1954. I got to hear the greatest music as it came out fresh. He will be missed. A great choice and show, thanks professor.
I was bummed when I heard he passed away. His contribution to music is immeasurable. Whether singing or as a songwriter. I just found out recently he helped write "Almost Paradise" from the "Footloose" soundtrack. I always liked his "Hungry Eyes" from Dirty Dancing and his song "Make Me Lose Control". Those songs came out very close together around 1987/1988. Hungry Eyes is heard quite often on the radio but Make Me Lose Control kind of flies under the radar a little bit. I remember vividly the summer of 1988 as I was going to be heading into 10th grade in high school, it was a hot summer that year and Make Me Lose Control is the perfect summertime driving tune to cruise to. R.I.P. Eric Carmen. Thank you for the music.
Imagine being a high-schooler in Greater Cleveland in 1987. Eric Carmen was EVERYWHERE on local radio. He had moved back to the early around the turn of the century, and he was from the suburbs near where I lived. He was very beloved in Cleveland, even at the times he left the locals shaking their heads.
Eric Carmen, just like many others, are gone. It is truly saddening. We can only look at what was left behind and wonder. For Eric, he left songs that have heart. I can understand how he felt about his singing. Sometimes people don't see what others see.
I am always grateful for the gifts these people leave behind. My life would not be the same without these people.
Eric might have not liked his voice, but he always sang with a lot of feeling. We are graced with the ability to enjoy his music. Although saddened by his passing, I will never be ungrateful for the songs that he left us with.
I know every word to All By Myself. It’s one of those songs that fills your heart. RIP ❤
Sad to hear of Eric's passing
Loved his singing and music
Such beautiful music, RIP.
I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU MADE A VIDEO OF THE RASPBERRIES!!!!! ❤!! They were 1 of my absolute FAVORITE bands but have since been soooo under appreciated! I’ve always hoped you’d feature them!!!! Also, somehow I never knew Eric Carmen was their lead singer!!? I always loved him also and it’s so cool to learn from you that he was the lead singer for The Raspberries!! ❤ THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE MEMORIES YOUR VIDEOS BRING BACK!!!!!!! 😊
Of course!
And we are in that group as we age.
Eric Carmen was underrated!
Love his work with The Raspberries as well as his solo works!
R.I.P
Agreed. What a voice! What's your favorite song by him?
@@ProfessorofRock “Go All the Way” with The Raspberries &
“All By Myself” as a solo artist
Was also a big fan of “Hungry Eyes”.
Of course, The Dirty Dancing soundtrack is one of the best ever, in my opinion
R.I.P E.C ~ an underrated, brilliant songwriter and singer. He took the best of nostalgic 50s and 60s sounds and wove them masterfully into his 70s & 80s pop classics ~ what a beautiful music legacy he left behind. My all-time favourite "Make Me Lose Control" ❤🎉
Both accurate and eloquently stated
I love Make Me Lose Control.
My favorite too
Eric Carmen also wrote “Teen Dream” and “Hey Deannie”, songs recorded by Shaun Cassidy in the late 70s. Thank you for the musical memories, Mr Carmen! Thank you Professor Adam for the video tribute!
"Make Me Lose Control" is my favorite EC tune... one of those special "feel good" songs that makes you throw your fist in the air and makes you "turn the radio up for that sweet sound"! Kinda also makes you wanna fall in love with that "special someone". What a great song from a great singer/songwriter! Thank you, Eric... May we always remember you as we listen to your music... and lose control! RIP
Insightful and moving tribute of Mr. Carmen. Well done sir. Rest in peace.
God knows I miss Eric. He was a great singer. Also, he was a beautiful soul. He loved America and talked to his fans on the internet.
Wish my parents were still around so I can ask them what they were thinking when as an innocent preeteen I would blare the car radio & sing Go All the Way when it came on. RIP Eric & thank you for making the 1970's & 80's that much sweeter. So talented with an unforgettable voice.
So many hits. Such a fantastic singer. I did not even know he passed away.
He may not have loved his own voice but we sure did. RIP Eric Carmen
RIP Eric, thanks for the music and the memories. You sang the soundtrack of many lives like mine and we’re forever grateful.
Thank you for this one. Eric Carmen is very under appreciated.
“Make Me Lose Control” is (in my opinion) is one of the best written songs. I love the nostalgia in the song, and Eric’s voice is great.
One of my all time favourite songs.
It is on regular rotation on my Spotify.
RIP Eric Carmen.
Have to add I like it when Professor of Rock mentions when he had to record the songs off the radio as it played, Back in the day they use to announce the Song and Artist before they were aired, at the very least at the end of the playing of a song, Now you have to get on the radio stations web site to look up that information. I must of recorded 100's of songs right off the radio station in my day as it was the only way if you could not afford to purchase the single. (I still have them on reel to reel).
Professor of Rock, THANK YOU for your timely reflections on Eric Carmen’s music! You did a GREAT job!
If Eric had “only” been the guy who discovered and managed the greatest power-pop band in the world, The Wondermints, he would still have achieved legendary status in my book. The fact that he wrote or co-wrote so many of those Raspberries classics and had the vocal chops to compete with almost anybody is astounding. They forged their own path, yet could still sound like The Beatles, The Beach Boys, The Who or The Faces with ease. Along with Wally Bryson’s riff, I think Eric created the quintessential power-pop song in “Go All the Way” and even inspired Springsteen to make “The River”. He'll be missed, but what a legacy! Check out "Starting Over", "On the Beach", and "Ecstasy". Power-pop genius.
Good call.
Go All the Way is one of the greatest songs of its time easily.
What are you talking about? What did he have to do with the Wondermints?
He was their first manager. See above. @@kingofallwhites
Yeah that's what I'd like to know too@@kingofallwhites
Great music. Thank you for sharing it with all of us! I had forgotten about some of these great songs but never the one you highlighted first!
I have heard so many of his songs, but had never heard of him until he passed away.
I just found out he passed away from watching this video. Today I heard Make Me Lose Control because it's on my work Playlist so I listen to it regularly. My favorite part of that song is the acapella harmony and I always replay it! It's beautiful. Thank you, Professor, for the insights on Mr. Carmen's career. He will be missed but his music will definitely stay with us.
Home Depot plays his songs!
My little sister had this album. I was into Sabbath. But loved some of the Raspberrys songs. Rest in Peace.
I loved Franke and the Knockouts! “Sweetheart” still brings back fond memories of the summer of 1981.
So glad that two of the members were able to create such wonderful music, including Eric Carmen’s comeback song.
Two songs he wrote but didn't release as singles became Top 10 hits for Shaun Cassidy - "That's Rock 'n Roll" & "Hey Deanie". Always loved his voice and music for my Power Pop musical dose. Thanks Professor.
Those two songs are my favorites of Eric's songs. He did put them on an album and I think he did them better than Shaun's versions.
Thanks for mentioning them. I came here to see if anyone did.
Carmen moved back to Ohio, to his roots, where he and his wife raised their family far from the music indusrty on the West Coast. Kudos to Carmen and RIP.
Let's Pretend was definitely my favorite song during the spring of 1973. I listened to Casey Kasem's American Top 40 every week at the time, hoping that Let's Pretend would at least crack the top ten on the Billboard charts. I was quite disappointed when it stalled out at #35. However, I later found out that it made #18 in Cashbox and #14 in Record World. I'm more inclined to believe those two charts, considering how much I heard it on the radio back then. Radio pretty much ignored the song after its relative failure on the Billboard charts. 15 years later I found a best-of CD by The Raspberries and bought it immediately. When Let's Pretend came through the speakers, I couldn't believe my ears! I had forgotten what a great song it is! I'd like to see a Professor Of Rock episode dedicated entirely to The Raspberries' lesser known hits, including Let's Pretend, I Wanna Be With You, Tonight, and Overnight Sensation. Go All The Way is a great song, but it's only the tip of the iceberg. They did at least a dozen song that can compare favorably to the best work of The Beatles and The Beach Boys during the mid sixties. RIP, Eric. You recorded some of the most underrated music ever.
Charismatic, boyish charm, handsome...Eric, the musical genius, lifted our spirits, energized our hearts, and spoke grace to us. We will always remember you, Eric...great portrayal, Professor.
Eric was from my hometown. Had the chance to meet him a few times. My brother plays in a band with Wally Bryce’s son. RIP Eric.
I had every single Eric Carmen put out when I was growing up, including from his time with The Raspberries! He was amazing!! R.I.P. Eric! Gone but will never be forgotten! 🌷
Thanks for watching!
Thank you so much for covering this icon. Carmen was incredible. Thank you for covering my favorite by him. The epic, Make me lose control.
I loved Eric Carmen's music as a solo artist and when he was with The Raspberries. Back in the late 1980's my cousin was lucky enough to play backup for Eric when he appeared on American Bandstand. RIP Eric.
He will never be forgotten... RIP Eric.
Amen!
I remember seeing a question posed to a variety of people of all ages on a poster. The question asked: What's the most important thing you've learned? The response from a 90-something year old woman was by *far* the best: I still have a lot to learn.
I learned that Eric was the lead singer of The Raspberries this morning. I'm in my 60's.
Fantastic episode, as usual! Adam, we can't thank you enough for shedding light on this fantastic song, and Eric. May he rest in peace. 🙏❤
Loved Eric Carmen and his music.. he was the only celebrity who has ever followed me back on Twitter…in 2020. I couldn’t believe it. RIP sweet man. Blessings to his beautiful wife and family.🙏❤️
Haha me too! And i forgot after all these years that i followed him and he interacted a bit. He seemed to be cool and intelligent. And I've loved his music since I was a little girl growing up in Cleveland. We were proud of Raspberries and Eric. Sad.
Thank you, Adam, for bringing us along to revisit and remember this important element in the soundtrack of our own personal lives. You do it all the time, but this one is especially important as a memorial to ERIC CARMEN.
I was very saddened to hear Mr. Carmen passed away. Very, very talented musician.
Amazing singer! He had an awesome voice! RIP Eric!
I graduated from high school in 1973. Thanks for taking the time to dive into nuances of music & artists that zoomed by me in the tsunami of music that roared through my youth & adolescence. As a freelance photographer, I met a few of my favorites & consider myself fortunate to have memories of people who were part of a truly amazing era.
He wrote almost paradise. That was in '84 and was a huge hit
'Let's Pretend' is my favourite Raspberries song and is one of my favourite songs of all time. I found it extraordinary that it wasn't a bigger hit. I live in Australia and I can confirm the smell from the 'scratch and sniff' sticker on the first Raspberries LP was all gone by 1978. The LP had been deleted but I used to frequent second hand stores. I remember one store in 1978 had a copy of the LP which still had the faintest smell of 'raspberry' from the sticker. But that was it. No more after that! Maybe if it was housed in protective sleeve the smell might have stayed a bit longer..
That riff in Go All the Way is iconic! I'd heard that song in passing growing up and never knew who it was by. Loved hearing it in Guardians of the Galaxy as well. RIP wishes to a true talent.
I understand not liking your own voice. I went through that. As far as "All By Myself," it's a true masterpiece! Once again, the classical music element makes it a true classic. His voice is perfect for the song. It sounds vulnerable, and eerily haunting. It's a regular on my daily playlist. Some people think Celine Dion did it better. Yeah her voice is powerful. This is another case where heart beats vocal power. Eric's version is so much better. The production in his version is also better.
He was born in the greatest location in the nation- Cleveland, Ohio. I believe the Raspberries were formed in Mentor, Ohio, which is where I lived for 13 years before leaving the state in 2018. 😎👍
I don’t like listening to my own voice either because it sounds vastly different than what I imagine.
I don't remember the raspberries growing up but go all the way was on one of those hits of the 70s albums I bought in the 90s and man it was a banger, by far the best song on the record. Of course I knew his solo songs but that was a real treat discovering the first hit. Great voice and very easy on the eyes 👀❤️ I was really saddened by his passing. Thank you for giving him his place on your channel 🤘on!
Very nice tribute to Eric, Professor...When I was a 13 and "All by Myself" was huge, I didn't even know that Eric Carmen was the lead singer of the Raspberries!! What happened to the Top 20 Razz hits, "I Wanna Be With You" and the opus "Overnight Sensation (Hit Record)" in his profile? John Lennon was a fan of "Hit Record," as he was recording his album "Walls and Bridges" at the Record Plant in 1974 at the same time they were in the studio...There is even a photo of him wearing a Raspberries t-shirt!!
Never heard about the copyright issues with using those classic tunes. Wow! Thank you for sharing these stories.
1. Eric Carmen not liking his own voice must be some form of humbleness and modesty. His voice was so silky smooth and soulful -- so powerful and yet so gentle at the same time.
Perhaps the reason some of his songs didn't reach number one was because that era of popular music was dominated by what was often uber-masculine rock and roll.
2. I remember that scratch and sniff Raspberries album. Went over to a friend's house and he push the album in my face and commanded, "SMELL!"
At first I thought it was a gag, like maybe his dog peed on it or something. But I precariously leaned in and gave it a whiff and was pleasantly surprised.
🕯️Rest in peace Eric. You left too soon 💔
Thanks.
Did it smell like raspberry?
Professor, thank you for a wonderful tribute to Eric Carmen! A gifted musician and incredible presence! One of kind! 🎉
Thank you for honoring Eric Carmen. His music helped identify my soul during my teenage years. He lives on as a part of me and many others who may not realize it or admit it.
Grew up in 70s with Eric & Raspberries on Cleveland radio. (WIXY 1260!). I was so little & oblivious, I didn't even realize for many years they were a local band. Obviously their great radio hits are in my DNA. This one is hitting hard. I'm not even a super fan, deep cut girl with these guys, but I think that's why I'm this sad... I think I kinda could have done more somehow? I don't know how to explain it. Listening to this great tribute video, and the talent that brought us such joy... what a gift. I could not remember how "Let's Pretend" went when you mentioned it, but I knew I used to love it. Pulled it up on Spotify... and sang along with every word from the first note. Saw him once at the tiny (tiny!) Pensacola airport in the late 80s, just waiting for his flight. That's a cool memory. He was very popular at the time. RIP Eric Carmen. I pray he fully appreciated how much he made a musical imprint on millions, and is every bit as respected and beloved as his own music idols. Rock on. ❤
I can truly say that Eric’s music always evoked touching emotion in me.
For sure!
A worthy tribute, Professor. Thank you.
Hungry Eyes was one of the first songs that really got stuck in my head and helped establish my taste in music. I had no idea in those days just how much Eric Carmen had contributed to the music scene. Would have been great if you could have interviewed him Professor. I don't think he did many. I only saw one and it was not at your level.