Ronnie Montrose: The Unsung Guitar Hero of Hard Rock

A Trailblazer in the World of Hard Rock

Ronnie Montrose is often recognized as one of the most influential guitarists in early hard rock. His 1973 debut album, Montrose, is frequently cited as America's answer to Led Zeppelin, and his work has had a lasting impact on the genre. With a career spanning over four decades, Montrose has left an indelible mark on the music industry, playing with some of the biggest names in rock and roll.

Early Life and Career

Born Ronald Douglas Montrose on November 29, 1947, in San Francisco, California, Montrose grew up in Denver, Colorado, before running away at 16 to pursue his musical dreams. He spent most of his life in the San Francisco Bay area, where he honed his craft and developed his unique style.

The Formation of Sawbuck and Montrose

In 1969, Montrose formed the band Sawbuck with Mojo Collins, Starr Donaldson, Chuck Ruff, and Bill Church. Signed to Fillmore Records, they toured and opened for major acts, including Van Morrison, before disbanding in 1971. Montrose and Church went on to join Morrison's band, playing on his album Tupelo Honey. This experience would lay the groundwork for Montrose's future success.

The Birth of Montrose

In 1973, Montrose formed his eponymous band, Montrose, with singer Sam Hagar, bassist Bill Church, and drummer Denny Carmassi. Their debut album, Montrose, was released in 1973 and became an instant classic, featuring hits like "Rock the Nation" and "Bad Motor Scooter." This album cemented Montrose's reputation as a guitar virtuoso and hard rock innovator.

Session Work and Collaborations

Throughout his career, Montrose has worked with a wide range of artists, including Herbie Hancock, Beaver & Krause, Boz Scaggs, Edgar Winter, Gary Wright, The Beau Brummels, Dan Hartman, Tony Williams, The Neville Brothers, and Marc Bonilla. His versatility and talent have made him a sought-after session musician and collaborator.

Influence on Modern Society

Montrose's influence on hard rock and heavy metal cannot be overstated. His work with Montrose and Gamma has inspired countless bands, including Van Halen, Iron Maiden, and Def Leppard. His guitar playing and songwriting have also influenced later generations of rock musicians, such as Metallica and Guns N' Roses.

Awards and Honors

Montrose has received numerous accolades for his contributions to rock music, including a place in the Guitar Player Magazine Hall of Fame and recognition as one of the "100 Greatest Heavy Metal Guitarists of All Time" by Guitar World.

Legacy and Impact

Ronnie Montrose's impact on hard rock and heavy metal is immeasurable. He was a true innovator and trailblazer, pushing the boundaries of what was possible on the guitar. His music continues to inspire and influence new generations of musicians and fans alike.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

• November 29, 1947: Born in San Francisco, California
• 1969: Forms Sawbuck with Mojo Collins, Starr Donaldson, Chuck Ruff, and Bill Church
• 1971: Joins Van Morrison's band
• 1973: Forms Montrose with Sam Hagar, Bill Church, and Denny Carmassi
• March 3, 2012: Passes away at the age of 64

Quotes and Memorable Sayings

"I'm not a virtuoso, I'm a rock player. I'm not interested in playing a million notes a minute. I'm interested in playing the right notes in the right place." - Ronnie Montrose