Guitar Legend, Ronnie Montrose dies
Rock guitarist Ronnie Montrose, one of rock’s great sidemen, who formed the band that bore his name and performed with some of rock’s heavy hitters, has died. He was 64. Montrose died Saturday at his home in Millbrae, agent Jim Douglas said. The cause was complications from prostate cancer, and termed “personal demons” said his wife, Leighsa Montrose.
Mr. Montrose, a San Francisco native, got his first break when he was hired to play guitar on Van Morrison’s 1971 album, “Tupelo Honey.” His career as a sideman continued with Boz Sammy Hagar, Herbie Hancock, Van Morrison, Boz Scaggs and the Edgar Winter Group, playing on the hits “Frankenstein” and “Free Ride”.
A statement regarding the passing of the guitarist, who formed his own band Montrose with Sammy Hagar, has been released on his website. “A few months ago, we held a surprise party for Ronnie Montrose’s 64th birthday,” it began. “He gave an impromptu speech, and told us that after a long life, filled with joy and hardship, he didn’t take any of our love for granted.”
His greatest success came with his own band, Montrose, which he formed in 1973. The original lineup featured Hagar on vocals and released two Led Zeppelin-inspired albums considered rock classics, “Montrose,” and 1974’s “Paper Money.” The hits “Bad Motor Scooter,” “Rock Candy” and “Space Station No. 5” became FM radio staples.
The group introduced music fans to the vocals of future Van Halen star Sammy Hagar and the rockers continued on when the singer decided to quit to pursue a solo career. Ronnie Montrose later formed another band, Gamma, in 1979, while also going on to enjoy success as a solo artist.
He played close to 50 shows last year. “He wanted to do more this year,” Leighsa Montrose said. “I have 25 contracts on my desk I was supposed to sign.” Douglas says Montrose was working on releasing a DVD and starting a tour that would have taken him all across the U.S.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Montrose, who lived in Millbrae, is survived by brothers Rick and Mike; son Jessie; daughter Kira Ratliff; and five grandchildren.
