Alex Ligertwood, the Scottish musician best known as the lead vocalist for the Latin rock band Santana, has died at the age of 79. He passed away just two weeks after performing his final show.
His wife, Shawn Brogan, announced the news on Facebook, writing: "It's with great sadness and heartache to announce the passing of my sweet dear Alex Ligertwood, my husband of 25 years, we knew each other for 36 years." She added that he "passed peacefully in his sleep with his doggy Bobo by his side."
Brogan described Ligertwood as someone who "touched so many with his extraordinary voice" and noted that making music was his "favourite thing" in life. "He performed his last show just two weeks ago. I'm grateful for that. He did it his way, on his terms, till the end," she wrote.
Musical Career
Born in Drumchapel, Glasgow, Ligertwood took up the guitar in the 1950s. He became the lead vocalist of Santana, founded by guitarist Carlos Santana in 1966, on and off between 1979 and 1994. During this period, he contributed to albums such as Marathon (1979), Zebop! (1981), and Sacred Fire: Live In South America (1993).
After his time with Santana, Ligertwood performed with the German tribute band The Magic Of Santana, as well as Senate, the Jeff Beck Group, and the Average White Band. He was believed to have been living in Santa Monica, California, at the time of his death.
Tributes
The Magic Of Santana paid tribute on social media, stating: "We are so sad! We just heard about Alex J Ligertwood passed away! We had a great journey together with him and we learned so much about music, passion and friendship. He was one of the best singers on this planet and we will deeply miss him. Thank you, Alex, for everything."
Brogan concluded her post by asking for prayers for herself and Ligertwood's family, including Lynn and Stewart Locke, Alex, Jenny, Kali, Merci, and Marilo.
