Ray Manzarek ~ R.I.P.

Ray Manzarek, keyboardist for The Doors, has passed away at the age of 74. Manzarek, instrumental in giving the group its distinct sound, founded the band with Jim Morrison in 1965 after the two had a chance encounter in Venice, reuniting the two UCLA film school friends. Following Morrison's passing, Ray performed with Iggy Pop, wrote two novels, and produced the first four albums by another iconic Los Angeles band, X, among his many other artistic accomplishments. Manzarek is survived by his wife, son, and grandchildren, and will live on in perpetuity through the dozens of riffs, melodies, and solos he created and performed via piano, electric keyboard, and Vox Continental organ on The Doors' most legendary songs. Rest in power, Ray, we'll miss you.