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
FAQ
What was Ronnie Montroses contribution to rock music?
Ronnie Montrose was an American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer, known for his innovative and influential rock music. He was a pioneer of the hard rock genre, and his work with Montrose and Gamma helped shape the sound of 1970s rock.
What are Ronnie Montroses most famous songs?
Ronnie Montroses most famous songs include Rock Candy and Bad Motor Scooter, which have become staples of classic rock radio. His music often featured soaring guitar solos and catchy hooks.
How did Ronnie Montroses guitar playing influence rock music?
Ronnie Montroses guitar playing was highly influential, introducing new techniques and sounds to rock music. His use of harmonics, tapping, and sweep picking paved the way for future generations of guitarists.
What was Ronnie Montroses role in the development of Montrose?
Ronnie Montrose was the founder, lead guitarist, and primary songwriter of Montrose, a influential hard rock band of the 1970s. The bands debut album, Montrose, is still widely regarded as a classic of the genre.
How has Ronnie Montroses legacy continued to inspire rock music?
Ronnie Montroses legacy continues to inspire rock music, with many artists citing him as an influence. His innovative guitar playing and songwriting have left a lasting impact on the genre, and his music remains popular to this day.