Who Is Ronnie Montrose? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Ronnie Montrose, born on November 29, 1947, in San Francisco, California, made a significant impact on the world of rock music before his passing in 2012. Known for his innovative guitar riffs and collaboration with legendary artists, Montrose's work has left an indelible mark on the genre. He began showcasing his musical talents at a young age and quickly rose to fame with the formation of the band Montrose in the early 1970s. The group's self-titled debut album included classics like "Rock Candy" and "Space Station #5," solidifying Ronnie's status as a guitar icon.
As of 2025, had Montrose lived, he would have celebrated his 78th birthday, continuing to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
| Occupation | Guitarist |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 29, 1947 |
| Age | 64 Years |
| Birth Place | San Francisco, California, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 3 March, 2012 |
| Died Place | N/A |
Popularity
Ronnie Montrose's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Ronnie Montrose stood at an impressive height of 6 feet (183 cm) and, throughout his life, maintained a weight around 175 pounds (79 kg). Montrose's physique complemented his energetic performances, contributing to his dynamic presence on stage.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Ronnie Montrose was known to be a private individual when it came to his personal life. Throughout his career, he stayed largely focused on his music but had significant relationships that shaped his life. He was married to his wife, Leighsa, for many years until his passing in 2012. Given the sensitive nature of his family life and relationships, much remains undisclosed, as Montrose often kept his romantic affiliations out of the public eye.
When he was a toddler, his parents moved back to his mother's home state of Colorado (his father was from Bertrand, Nebraska, and his mother was from Golden, Colorado). He spent most of his younger years in Denver until he ran away at about 16 years old to pursue his musical career. Ultimately he spent most of his life in the San Francisco Bay area.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his death in 2012, Ronnie Montrose's net worth was estimated to be around $10 million. His wealth was primarily derived from his successful career in music, including album sales, live performances, and royalties from his extensive catalog. Montrose's influence in rock music continues to generate income through streaming platforms and licensed commercials, ensuring his legacy lives on.
Career, Business and Investments
Ronnie Montrose's career spanned over four decades, during which he produced an impressive body of work, collaborating with prominent artists like Sammy Hagar, Edgar Winter, and Van Morrison. His innovative guitar playing and production skills were pivotal in defining the sound of classic rock.
In addition to his music, Montrose ventured into various businesses, including a recording studio, where he produced emerging talents. His passion for music led him to continuously invest in projects that upheld his artistic vision, ensuring that new generations could experience the thrill of rock music.
Montrose formed his own band, Montrose, in 1973. It featured Sammy Hagar on vocals. That incarnation of the band released two albums with Warner Bros. Records, Montrose (1973) and Paper Money (1974), before Hagar left to pursue a solo career.
Although the liner notes for the CD edition of Paper Money said that Montrose was invited to play lead guitar for Mott the Hoople after he left the Edgar Winter Group, Montrose said that it never happened and was just a rumor. He also added his guitar work to Gary Wright's song, "Power of Love", on the 1975 album, The Dream Weaver.
Social Network
Though Ronnie Montrose passed away in 2012, his influence persists in digital form. Fans continue to follow his legacy through various social media platforms and dedicated fan clubs. His official website remains a hub for news related to his work, while tribute pages and fan accounts on platforms like Facebook and Instagram celebrate his life and contributions to music.
Education
Ronnie Montrose's formal education in music was relatively limited; however, his talent and creativity were honed through years of practice and performance rather than conventional schooling. His dedication to his craft and commitment to learning on the job allowed him to develop his unique style and become one of the most respected guitarists in rock history.
