Richard Perry, legendary music producer known for shaping the sound of 1970s and 1980s pop music, died Tuesday in Los Angeles at age 82 from cardiac arrest.

Perry's illustrious career included producing iconic hits like Carly Simon's "You're So Vain" and Barbra Streisand's "Stoney End." He worked with numerous celebrated artists, including Harry Nilsson, Ringo Starr, Diana Ross, and The Pointer Sisters.

Beginning his career at Warner Bros. Records (1967-1970), Perry produced albums for Ella Fitzgerald and Fats Domino. His breakthrough came with Tiny Tim's debut album, featuring the hit "Tip-Toe Thru the Tulips With Me."

Known as a "song doctor" in the studio, Perry's production style was characterized by its clarity and ability to enhance artists' natural talents. His work earned him seven Grammy nominations and a prestigious Trustees Award for lifetime achievement in 2015.

"I try to make the artist the biggest and best they can possibly be," Perry told Musician magazine in 1985. His dedication to artist development and pristine production made him one of the most respected producers of his era.

In 2020, Perry released his memoir "Cloud Nine: Memoirs of a Record Producer," chronicling his experiences with music legends and life in the Hollywood Hills. His legacy lives on through the countless hits he helped create during the golden age of pop music.

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