Douglass Haywood Rauch (September 14, 1950 – April 23, 1979) was an American bassist.

Early life

Douglass Haywood Rauch was born in New York City.

Career

His career started in 1969, aged 19, when he played on the album L.A.M.F, released by Bunky and Jake. He played with Carlos Santana and his own group Santana, during their jazz fusion period in the early 1970s. He came as originally as a touring member, filling in for the band's original bass guitarist, David Brown, who was unable to tour due to ongoing drug habits. By the end of the year, Rauch had fully replaced and was a full-time member of the band. As a member of Santana, he contributed to only two albums, Caravanserai (1972) and Welcome (1973). Rauch left Santana in 1974. He also teamed up with David Bowie for his Diamond Dogs tour for a month in September 1974. During his career, he also played with Papa John Creach, Betty Davis, and Carly Simon.

Death

In his final years, he suffered from depression and numerous addictions. Rauch died of a drug overdose in San Francisco, California, on April 23, 1979, at the age of 28.

Discography