The Doors were an important American cultural contribution, and Manzarek not only wrote the music, it was his self-effacing dedication to the music, rather than ego, that enabled him to contain the selfish monster known as Jim Morrison and direct that man's considerable creative energies constructively for the better part of a decade.
Thank you, Ray Manzarek.
Morrison could be an alcohol fueled jerk, but when it came to the band I don’t think he was that way. I don’t think he demanded more money, and the songs were all credited to the entire band.
I agree with wideawake. I’ve been a keyboardist (organ, synth and piano ) and was playing in bands since 1963...retired 1994 to take up diaconal studies at Providence College. Ray was not only an excellent writer/player, but also an innovator that changed the course of rock music. He inspired a whole new genre of players, including myself.
RIP, Ray
Dittos to what you said. One would think Manzarek wrote Light my Fire given the intense organ part. However Krieger wrote that one. Band liked it. Ray Manzarek goes off and rather quickly comes up with this Bach inspired intro. Rest is history.
Ray was a pioneer rock keyboard player and plowed the ground for many that followed. I really liked that guy and miss him.
Excellent and accurate post. he also kept John and Robby from walking out many times.