R.I.P. Ray Manzarek Of The Doors

Updated:

May 20, 2013 5:08 pm

American Songwriter participates in affiliate programs with various companies. Links originating on American Songwriter’s website that lead to purchases or reservations on affiliate sites generate revenue for American Songwriter . This means that American Songwriter may earn a commission if/when you click on or make purchases via affiliate links.

Videos by American Songwriter

Keyboardist Ray Manzarek of The Doors died today in Rosenheim, Germany at age 74 after a battle with bile duct cancer.

After selling more than 100 million albums worldwide with The Doors, Manzarek went on to write a bestselling memoir “Light My Fire: My Life With The Doors” and perform as a solo artist. In 2002 he reunited with Doors guitarist and songwriter Robby Krieger, forming The Doors of the 21st Century with Cult vocalist Ian Astbury.

“I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of my friend and bandmate Ray Manzarek today,” said Krieger in a statement. “I’m just glad to have been able to have played Doors songs with him for the last decade. Ray was a huge part of my life and I will always miss him.”

Manzarek is survived by his wife Dorothy, and brothers Rick and James Manczarek, who were all present at his death. He is also survived by his son Pablo Manzarek, Pablo’s wife Sharmin, and their three children Noah, Apollo and Camille.

Revisit our Doors cover story, Sex, Death and Poetry here.