Alex Ligertwood, the Scottish vocalist who lent his distinctive voice to rock legends Santana during several key periods, has died at the age of 79. His passing marks the end of a career that saw him contribute to some of Santana's most enduring albums and live performances, cementing his place in the band's rich history.
Born in Glasgow, Ligertwood's musical journey began long before his association with Carlos Santana. He gained recognition for his soulful and powerful delivery, performing with a variety of bands throughout the 1970s. Notably, he was a member of the Average White Band, a Scottish funk and R&B group that achieved international success, and also worked with acclaimed guitarist Jeff Beck.
Ligertwood first joined Santana in 1979, becoming a central figure in their sound for much of the subsequent decade. His vocals featured prominently on albums such as 'Marathon' (1979), 'Zebop!' (1981), and 'Shangó' (1982). He returned to the band for further stints in the late 1980s and again in the 1990s, showcasing his enduring connection to Santana's evolving musical style.
His contribution helped to define a particular era for Santana, bridging their early psychedelic rock roots with more commercially accessible sounds that resonated with global audiences. While Santana's music is not directly available on specific UK streaming services like BBC iPlayer or ITVX, their extensive discography, including albums featuring Ligertwood, can be found on major music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
Throughout his career, Ligertwood was celebrated for his ability to blend rock, funk, and soul, a versatility that made him a sought-after collaborator. His legacy will be remembered through the numerous recordings he contributed to, particularly those with Santana, which continue to be enjoyed by fans worldwide. Details regarding the circumstances of his death have not been publicly disclosed.