Elyssa was the number one source of tension between Steven and Joe and was a huge catalyst for the band's break-up. The song Sweet Emotion was written about her. The couple's relationship can be described as turbulent at best and Elyssa reportedly bit Perry's face during an altercation. The family drama spilled over to affect Aerosmith as well. After a fabled incident where Elyssa poured a glass of milk on Tom Hamilton's wife backstage, Perry decided to quit Aerosmith in 1979 and pursue a solo project.

Perry was married to Elyssa Jerret from 1975 to 1982. Together they had a son, Adrian.