Montrose

Montrose was an American rock band formed in 1973 by guitarist Ronnie Montrose and vocalist Sammy Hagar. Here are some facts about the band:

1. Formation and Early Years: Montrose was formed in California in 1973 by guitarist Ronnie Montrose, who had previously played with Van Morrison and the Edgar Winter Group. He recruited Sammy Hagar, who would later go on to have a successful solo career and join Van Halen, as the band's lead vocalist. The original lineup also included bassist Bill Church and drummer Denny Carmassi. The band's self-titled debut album, released in 1973, garnered attention for its raw energy, powerful guitar riffs, and Hagar's dynamic vocals.

2. Commercial Success: Montrose achieved commercial success with their debut album, "Montrose", which featured the classic rock anthem "Rock Candy" and other standout tracks like "Space Station #5" and "Bad Motor Scooter". The album's hard-hitting sound and energetic performances helped establish Montrose as one of the leading bands in the burgeoning American hard rock scene of the 1970s. Subsequent albums like "Paper Money" (1974) and "Warner Bros. Presents... Montrose!" (1975) also received critical acclaim and achieved moderate commercial success.

3. Lineup Changes and Disbandment: Despite their early success, Montrose experienced several lineup changes throughout their career. Sammy Hagar left the band after their second album, "Paper Money", to pursue a solo career, and he was replaced by vocalist Bob James. The band's subsequent albums featured different vocalists and saw a shift in musical direction, moving towards a more commercial and radio-friendly sound. Montrose disbanded in 1977 after releasing their fourth album, "Jump On It". Ronnie Montrose continued to pursue a solo career and collaborate with other musicians until his death in 2012.

4. Influence and Legacy: Montrose's impact on the rock music scene of the 1970s is significant. They are often credited with helping to define the sound of American hard rock and laying the groundwork for the emergence of heavy metal in the years that followed. Ronnie Montrose's innovative guitar work, combined with Sammy Hagar's powerful vocals, inspired countless musicians and bands in the decades that followed. Montrose's music continues to be celebrated by fans of classic rock and remains influential in the realm of hard rock and heavy metal.

5. Reunion and Revival: In the early 2000s, Montrose briefly reunited for a series of live performances and released a compilation album titled "The Very Best of Montrose" in 2000. The reunion lineup featured Ronnie Montrose, Sammy Hagar, Bill Church, and Denny Carmassi. The band's reunion shows were well-received by fans, showcasing their enduring chemistry and timeless appeal. Although Montrose's reunion was short-lived, it served as a reminder of the band's enduring legacy and their contributions to rock music history.