Sammy Hagar Releases Statement on Death of Ronnie Montrose

Earlier today the sad news came in that legendary guitar player Ronnie Montrose passed away on Saturday, March 3. Ronnie formed the band Montrose with Sammy Hagar in the early '70s. Montrose released their self-titled album in 1973 followed by 'Paper Money' in 1974 before Hagar left the band to pursue his solo career. Ronnie continued to play with Montrose.

Hagar, currently part of the supergroup Chickenfoot, posted this heartfelt message in response to the loss of his friend and former bandmate Ronnie Montrose on his website:

Ronnie Montrose gave me my first break as a songwriter, as a front man, as a recording artist, as a touring artist, and for that I will always be grateful.

I was looking forward to a reunion for my birthday bash in Cabo with Denny, Bill and Ronnie - one of the few bands from that era where all four original members were still able to do it. It's a shame to lose Ronnie and I'm so sorry for his loved ones. Rest in peace.

Many other rockers weighed in on the loss of Ronnie Montrose too, read what they had to say here about Montrose and his music.