Richard Perry — a renowned music producer celebrated for his collaborations with some of the biggest names in the music industry during the 1970s and 1980s — has sadly passed away, as confirmed by TMZ.

Ben McCarthy — who served as Perry’s dedicated private assistant for nearly three decades — shared with TMZ that Richard passed away around 1:30 AM this morning, marking a significant loss in the music community.

Sources indicate that Richard bravely battled Parkinson’s disease for several years. McCarthy noted that during his last visit about a month ago, he found Richard unable to communicate verbally. Despite this, Richard was noted to be in good spirits, showing resilience and strength during that challenging time.

Perry ventured into the music industry after completing his education in 1964, making a significant move from Michigan to Los Angeles. There, he made his mark by producing the first few albums for the avant-garde rock icon Captain Beefheart, which helped him build a strong foundation in music production.

Throughout the 1970s, Perry expanded his influence by collaborating with legendary artists such as Carly Simon, Barbra Streisand, Art Garfunkel, Diana Ross, and Ringo Starr. His close collaboration with Rod Stewart was particularly noteworthy, as Perry played a crucial role in producing three of Stewart’s iconic Great American Songbook albums, solidifying their professional bond.

In 1978, Perry founded Planet Records, his very own record label, which he successfully managed until its acquisition by RCA Records in 1983. This venture showcased his entrepreneurial spirit and his desire to shape the music landscape.

Perry’s illustrious career was marked by numerous awards, including the production of multiple platinum and gold albums. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the music industry, he was honored with the prestigious Grammy Trustees Award in 2015, highlighting his impact on recording and music as a whole.

From 2009 to 2017, Perry was in a notable relationship with acclaimed actress Jane Fonda. Their romance blossomed as he supported her recovery from knee surgery, demonstrating his caring nature and commitment to his partner during a difficult time.

Perry confirmed their breakup in 2017, acknowledging that the rumors surrounding their separation were true. However, he emphasized that they maintained a close friendship and continued to care deeply for one another, showcasing the strong bond they shared.

Perry was 82 years old at the time of his passing, leaving behind a rich legacy in the music world and a profound impact on both artists and fans alike.