Feature Photo:Warner Bros. Records, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Montrose was formed in 1973 in California by guitarist Ronnie Montrose. Known for their powerful, guitar-driven sound, Montrose released four studio albums during their original run, including their self-titled debut, Montrose (1973), which is often regarded as one of the greatest hard rock albums of the 1970s. Despite numerous lineup changes, the band was known for its influential and iconic sound, fronted initially by vocalist Sammy Hagar. Montrose disbanded in 1977 but briefly reunited in 1987. Over the years, the band underwent multiple lineup changes with a revolving door of talented musicians who contributed to its legacy, though they never quite matched the chart success of their debut. Montrose’s impact on the rock genre remains significant, marked by classic tracks like “Rock Candy” and “Bad Motor Scooter.”
Ronnie Montrose
Ronnie Montrose was the founding guitarist and namesake of the band, forming Montrose in 1973 after previously working with artists like Van Morrison and Edgar Winter. He was the driving force behind the band’s distinctive sound, characterized by powerful riffs and a raw, energetic guitar style. Ronnie played on all four of the band’s original studio albums: Montrose (1973), Paper Money (1974), Warner Bros. Presents Montrose! (1975), and Jump on It (1976). He left the band in 1977 but briefly returned in 1987 for the reunion album Mean. Montrose’s influence extended beyond his own band as he went on to have a successful solo career, forming Gamma in the late 1970s and releasing several solo albums. His career highlights include working with Herbie Hancock and Boz Scaggs, showcasing his versatility as a guitarist.
Sammy Hagar
Sammy Hagar was the original vocalist for Montrose, joining in 1973 and contributing to the band’s first two albums, Montrose and Paper Money. Hagar’s powerful and dynamic vocal style helped define the band’s sound during its formative years, with standout performances on tracks like “Bad Motor Scooter” and “Space Station No. 5.” Hagar left Montrose in 1975 due to creative differences and went on to a highly successful solo career before joining Van Halen in 1985, replacing David Lee Roth. Hagar also formed supergroups like Chickenfoot and The Circle and is known for hits such as “I Can’t Drive 55,” solidifying his place as one of rock’s most enduring frontmen.
Read More: Top 10 Sammy Hagar 70s Songs
Denny Carmassi
Denny Carmassi joined Montrose as the drummer in 1973, playing on the first four albums before leaving the band in 1977. His powerful drumming style was a key component of the band’s early sound, driving tracks like “Space Station No. 5” and “I Got the Fire.” After his tenure with Montrose, Carmassi continued to build an impressive career, playing with Sammy Hagar’s solo band and later joining Heart during their 1980s resurgence. He also played with Whitesnake, Coverdale/Page, and worked on recordings with artists like Joe Walsh, showcasing his versatility and adaptability across rock and hard rock genres.
Bill Church
Bill Church played bass on Montrose’s debut album in 1973, laying down the foundational grooves that helped establish the band’s sound. He left the band in 1974 and was replaced by Alan Fitzgerald. After his time with Montrose, Church joined Sammy Hagar’s solo band, playing on several of Hagar’s early solo records, including the hit Standing Hampton album. Church’s steady and melodic bass playing was a crucial element in the early success of both Montrose and Hagar’s solo work.
Alan Fitzgerald
Alan Fitzgerald replaced Bill Church on bass in 1974 and played on the albums Paper Money (1974) and Warner Bros. Presents Montrose! (1975). His contributions included a more melodic bass style that complemented Ronnie Montrose’s guitar work. After leaving the band in 1976, Fitzgerald went on to become a founding member of the band Night Ranger, where he switched to keyboards and achieved significant commercial success with hits like “Sister Christian” and “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me.”
Bob James
Bob James replaced Sammy Hagar as the lead vocalist in 1975 and sang on the albums Warner Bros. Presents Montrose! and Jump on It (1976). His vocal style differed from Hagar’s, bringing a bluesier and more laid-back feel to the band’s later work. Despite not achieving the same level of acclaim as his predecessor, James’ contributions were integral to the band’s third and fourth albums. After leaving Montrose, James pursued a lower-profile solo career.
Jim Alcivar
Jim Alcivar joined Montrose as the keyboardist in 1975, adding a new dimension to the band’s sound on their later albums Warner Bros. Presents Montrose! and Jump on It. His keyboard work provided a richer, more layered sound to the band’s arrangements, particularly on tracks like “Matriarch.” Alcivar continued to work with Ronnie Montrose on his later projects, including the Gamma albums, showcasing his talents as a versatile keyboardist.
Randy Jo Hobbs
Randy Jo Hobbs briefly played bass for Montrose in 1976, appearing on some live performances but not on any studio recordings. Hobbs was best known for his work with The McCoys and Johnny Winter’s band prior to his short tenure with Montrose. His involvement with the band was brief, and he left before any major recording contributions could be made.
Glenn Letsch
Glenn Letsch played bass during Montrose’s 1987 reunion for the album Mean. Letsch had previously worked with Ronnie Montrose in the band Gamma and brought a seasoned presence to the group during its later phase. Outside of Montrose, Letsch is known for his work with musicians like Robin Trower and has been a respected session player in the rock and blues scenes.
Johnny Edwards
Johnny Edwards joined Montrose as the lead vocalist for the 1987 reunion album Mean. Edwards brought a powerful vocal presence to the band’s sound during this brief period. Before joining Montrose, Edwards was known for his work with the band Buster Brown, and he later went on to front Foreigner on their album Unusual Heat in 1991.
James Kottak
James Kottak joined Montrose on drums for the 1987 reunion album Mean. Known for his hard-hitting style, Kottak brought a fresh energy to the band’s late 80s lineup. Before Montrose, Kottak played with bands like Kingdom Come, and he later gained fame as the drummer for the Scorpions, where he played for nearly two decades.
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Complete List Of Montrose Band Members article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
