Raymond Daniel Manczarek Jr. (February 12, 1939 – May 20, 2013) better known as Ray Manzarek, was an American musician, singer, producer, film director, and author, best known as a founding member and keyboardist of The Doors from 1965 to 1973. Manzarek was notable for performing on a bass keyboard during many live shows and some recordings, taking on a role usually filled by a bass guitar player. He was a co-founding member of Nite City from 1977 to 1978, and of Manzarek–Krieger from 2001 until his death in 2013.