Renowned record producer Richard Perry, 82, passed away in Los Angeles on Tuesday from cardiac arrest. Perry was renowned for fusing classic standards with contemporary sounds. Perry, who received the 2015 Grammys Trustee Award, has had a significant impact on the music business with his adaptable production style and his standing as a “musician’s producer.”
His career was marked by an impressive range of successes on pop, R&B, dance, and country charts, from the classic Carly Simon “You’re So Vain” to The Pointer Sisters’ electric “I’m So Excited.” In addition to guiding the artistic trajectories of well-known figures like Rod Stewart and Leo Sayer, he was instrumental in reviving the careers of legends like Barbra Streisand and Fats Domino.
The music business was entwined with Perry’s personal life. He attended important events, such as Otis Redding’s Monterey Pop Festival appearance and the Rolling Stones‘ recording sessions. His home in West Hollywood was a centre of exciting parties attended by celebrities like Mick Jagger and Paul McCartney, known for his vivacious demeanour.
Ringo Starr’s critically acclaimed solo album, Ringo, saw Perry promote a near Beatles reunion in 1973. Featuring singles like “Photograph” and “You’re Sixteen,” which were the work of other notable artists such as George Harrison and Harry Nilsson, the album further established Starr as a credible solo artist.
Perry became a legend in his business because he could work well with others and pair musicians with the right material. His legacy lives on in his hits as well as in the lives he touched with his kindness, ingenuity, and love of music.
