After less than two years together, Nash, 40, died on December 14, 2012.

Her death, though heartbreaking, ultimately inspired Perry to return to music.

Speaking with the New York Times, Perry recalled a promise he made to her before she died: “She said, ‘If something were to happen to me, promise me you won’t go back into isolation. Because that would make this all for naught.”

‘Open arms’

In 2018, Perry made good on that promise. After 24 years away from the studio, he released “Traces,” his first solo album since 1994. The album was deeply personal, shaped by grief, love, and reflection.