Introduction
Steve Douglas (born Steven Douglas Kreisman; September 24, 1938 – April 19, 1993) was an American saxophonist and flautist. As a Los Angeles session musician, he worked with Phil Spector, Brian Wilson, and The Beach Boys.
Biography
Douglas can be heard on records by Duane Eddy, Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, Willy DeVille, Bob Dylan, The Ramones and many others. He was also a record producer, having produced Mink DeVille's Le Chat Bleu, as well as tracks for Wayne Newton and The Lettermen.
On April 19, 1993, while warming up with Ry Cooder, Steve Douglas collapsed and died. Heart Failure was the official cause of death. He was only 54.
Each year Darlene Love performs "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" for Christmas on the Late Show with David Letterman with Douglas's sax from the original recording being played by Bruce Kapler.
Awards
In 2003, Douglas was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Selected discography
As leader
- Twist with Steve Douglas and the Rebels, 1962
- Hot Sax, 1990
As sideman
- The Beach Boys: Pet Sounds; 15 Big Ones; Keepin' the Summer Alive
- Bob Dylan: Street Legal; Bob Dylan at Budokan; Shot of Love; Knocked Out Loaded
- Duane Eddy: Have 'Twangy' Guitar Will Travel
- Sammy Hagar: Street Machine
- Mink DeVille: Cabretta; Return to Magenta; Le Chat Bleu
- The Ramones: End of the Century