Steve Douglas Kreisman (1938-1993), professionally known as Steve Douglas, was an accomplished American saxophonist and flutist whose versatile playing style and exceptional musicianship made him one of the most in-demand session musicians in the rock and pop music scenes. Born in Los Angeles, California, Douglas developed an early passion for music and honed his skills on the saxophone and flute.
Douglas’s career took off in the late 1950s when he became a key member of the famous group of session musicians known as the Wrecking Crew. The Wrecking Crew was responsible for numerous hit records during the 1960s and 1970s, working with an extensive list of iconic artists and producers such as Phil Spector, Brian Wilson, and Sonny & Cher.
Over the course of his career, Steve Douglas played on countless classic tracks, contributing his distinctive saxophone sound to songs like “Be My Baby” by The Ronettes, “Da Doo Ron Ron” by The Crystals, and “Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys. His ability to adapt his playing style to various genres made him a valuable asset in the studio, and his work can be heard on recordings by artists ranging from Elvis Presley to Bob Dylan.
In addition to his successful career as a session musician, Douglas also worked as a producer, arranger, and composer. He was involved in the production of several albums for artists such as Duane Eddy and Ry Cooder. Douglas was also a founding member of the short-lived but influential surf rock group, The Routers.
Steve Douglas’s contributions to the world of music were recognized with a posthumous induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003 as a part of the “Sidemen” category, honoring his influential work as a session musician.
In summary, Steve Douglas Kreisman was a highly skilled and sought-after American saxophonist and flutist, known for his work with the legendary Wrecking Crew and his contributions to numerous iconic recordings. His versatility, musicianship, and lasting impact on the rock and pop music scenes have solidified his status as a remarkable figure in the world of music.
Last updated 3/18/2023.
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