Richard Perry, renowned record producer behind numerous hit songs from the 1970s and 1980s, passed away at age 82 in Los Angeles due to cardiac arrest. His death was confirmed by friend Daphna Kastner Keitel to The New York Times.

Perry's illustrious career included producing iconic hits like Carly Simon's "You're So Vain" and Barbra Streisand's "Stoney End." He began his journey at Warner Bros. Records (1967-1970), where he worked with legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Fats Domino.

Known as a "song doctor," Perry's production style was characterized by its clarity and ability to enhance artists' natural talents. His impressive portfolio included collaborations with:

• Harry Nilsson (Nilsson Schmilsson)
• Ringo Starr (Ringo and Goodnight Vienna)
• Art Garfunkel
• Diana Ross
• The Pointer Sisters
• Rod Stewart (Great American Songbook series)

Throughout his career, Perry received seven Grammy nominations and was honored with the Grammy Trustees Award for lifetime achievement in 2015. His 2020 memoir, "Cloud Nine: Memoirs of a Record Producer," chronicled his experiences working with music industry legends and hosting star-studded gatherings at his Hollywood Hills home.

"I try to make the artist the biggest and best they can possibly be," Perry told Musician magazine in 1985, exemplifying his dedication to bringing out the best in every performer he worked with.

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