All By Myself – Eric Carmen (1975) – Sanchez Song Of The Day

Eric Carmen released this song on his debut album in 1974. Eric plays piano and sings on this great track. He says that he started writing the solo section of this song first and needed a song to put it in. After listening to Rachmaninoff’s 2nd piano concerto, he adapted the melody and wrote the verses to “All By Myself.” In case you haven’t heard that name, Rachmaninoff is a Russian composer and pianist from the late 1800s. Eric Carmen was under the impression that Rachmaninoff’s work was in the public domain at that point and free to use without copyright infringement. He was correct, but it was still protected in other countries at the time of his release. Eric had also adapted a different Rachmaninoff work on his other song, “Never Gonna Fall in Love Again,” on the same album. The Rachmaninoff estate contacted Mr. Carmen, and they worked out an agreement for both songs.

The song has been covered by a few different singers, but the biggest and best by far is by Celine Dion. Her version has one of the best key changes in music history. Definitely worth a listen just for the key change alone. Many folks think this song is by Celine, but now you can tell those people they’re wrong with confidence.

Listen for… The long solo section. He said he wrote it 4 bars at a time, and it took him 2 months. The sadness in his voice is almost haunting. I believe Eric Carmen when he sings to us about not wanting to be alone. Rachmaninoff’s beautiful melodies shine like diamonds in this song. He was a master of piano and orchestra, and his melodies during the verses make this song extremely special.

Enjoy!

Song: “All By Myself”

Artist: Eric Carmen

Album: Eric Carmen

Year: 1975

Other great tracks on the album:
“Never Gonna Fall In Love Again”
“That’s Rock ‘n Roll”