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- Family announcement and personal details about his passing
- How Alex Ligertwood found his voice and began his music journey
- Years with Santana: a defining chapter
- Memorable songs that featured his voice
- Other bands and musical partnerships
- Tributes and reactions from colleagues
- Final years: Santa Monica life and last performances
- Selected discography and career highlights
Alex Ligertwood, the Scottish-born singer whose voice became closely linked with Santana’s late-1970s and 1980s sound, has died at 79. His wife announced he passed away peacefully in his sleep, with their dog by his side. Fans and fellow musicians have been sharing memories of a performer known for a warm tone and magnetic stage presence.
Family announcement and personal details about his passing
Ligertwood’s wife, Shawn Brogan, posted about his death on social media. She recalled his devotion to music and the joy he took in performing.
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She said he loved making music above everything and that he gave performances right up to the end on his own terms. Brogan asked for privacy and prayers for their children as the family grieves.
How Alex Ligertwood found his voice and began his music journey
Born in Scotland, Ligertwood picked up the guitar and started singing as a teen. Music was his first passion and his lifelong occupation.
- Early years: learning guitar in the 1950s and developing a soulful singing style.
- Move into professional work: local gigs and session work that led to higher-profile collaborations.
Years with Santana: a defining chapter
Ligertwood joined Santana intermittently between 1979 and 1994, lending his vocals to some of the group’s most recognizable tracks from that era. His voice helped bridge Santana’s Latin-rock roots and mainstream pop-rock appeal.
Albums and tracks he sang on
- Marathon (1979) — featured his vocal contribution to several songs.
- Zebop! (1981) — included one of his best-known performances.
- Sacred Fire: Live in South America (1993) — captured his live energy on stage.
Memorable songs that featured his voice
Listeners still hear Ligertwood’s work on recordings that received radio play and live acclaim.
- You Know That I Love You (1979)
- Winning (1981)
- Hold On (1982)
Other bands and musical partnerships
Beyond Santana, Ligertwood performed with several well-known acts during his career. These collaborations expanded his musical reach and influence.
- The Senate
- Jeff Beck Group
- Average White Band
- The Magic of Santana (tribute band)
Tributes and reactions from colleagues
News of his death prompted immediate responses from musicians and tribute groups. The Magic of Santana expressed deep sorrow and gratitude for time spent with him.
They described Ligertwood as one of the best singers on the planet and thanked him for his lessons in music and friendship. Fans flooded social feeds with memories and recordings of his live performances.
Final years: Santa Monica life and last performances
Ligertwood lived in Santa Monica for the last part of his life. Reports indicate he had been battling health issues in recent years.
He performed his final show only weeks before his death, according to family notes, and was able to be onstage one last time — a moment his wife said she is grateful for.
Selected discography and career highlights
- Marathon (1979) — Santana
- Zebop! (1981) — Santana
- Sacred Fire: Live in South America (1993) — Santana
- Notable singles: “You Know That I Love You,” “Winning,” “Hold On”
- Live and tribute projects with The Magic of Santana
