For nearly five decades, Richard Perry helped singers bring their ideas to life as the record producer scored several hits throughout the years. Looking over his legacy, the producer worked with Diana Ross, Martha Reeves, Harry Nilsson, Art Garfunkel, and even Barbra Streisand. Sadly, just one day before Christmas, news broke that the famed record producer passed away at 82. Taking a moment to honor Perry and his contributions to music, Streisand wrote a heartfelt tribute to the producer.
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Sharing a picture on Instagram, it showed both Streisand and Perry working together in the studio. Decades ago, both were young and full of creativity. And it also appeared that Perry had a strong sense of fashion. As for the tribute, Streisand wrote, “Richard had an uncanny ability to pick the hits, and most important to me, a wonderful sense of humor. We had such fun in the studio…and we became really good life-long friends.”
Detailing the times they worked together over the years and his mastery in the studio, Streisand added, “We worked together on two albums, Stoney End and Barbra Joan Streisand, where he encouraged me to record contemporary songs. It was exciting to explore that kind of material with him. By the way, Richard thought Laura Nyro’s “Stoney End” would be a hit for me, and I thought he was nuts! I was so happy to be proven wrong!”
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Barbra Streisand Considered Richard Perry A “Special Person”
According to reports, Perry passed away on December 24th after suffering from a heart attack. Although struggling with his health, the producer also suffered from Parkinson’s disease. Streisand finished her tribute to Perry with, “He was a truly special person and I’m so grateful our paths crossed. Rest in musical peace Richard.”
Gaining over 20,000 likes, fans filled the comment section with love and praise for Perry. Comments included, “Deepest condolences to his family! His work with Miss Streisand is what made me become a fan!” Another person added, “Getting older means losing friends. It’s super hard but it’s part of living a long life. So sorry for your loss.”
(Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for BSB)
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