Former Santana singer Alex Ligertwood dies at 79

The musician passed peacefully in his sleep with his dog Bobo by his side at his Santa Monica home, his family said. His wife, Shawn Brogan, later described that final performance as a triumphant moment on his own terms. His career included collaborations with icons such as Carlos Santana and Jeff Beck, as noted by guitarist Brandon Paul, who performed with him in the Icons of Classic Rock supergroup. Born in Scotland, his distinctive voice became a defining element of Santana's sound in the 1980s. Brogan said Ligertwood's love for music drove him to perform until the very end. The exact date and cause of his death have not been disclosed, and no details about a public memorial have been announced.

Shawn Brogan, Ligertwood's wife, paid tribute in a Facebook post. She wrote that he 'was loved by so many' and described him as 'all heart and soul.' Brogan also noted that his 'favourite thing in life was to make music, sing and share his gift.' She expressed gratitude for his final performance, saying, 'I'm grateful for that. He did it his way, on his terms, till the end.' Brogan's post quickly garnered an outpouring of condolences from fans and musicians who admired Ligertwood's work. She closed with 'I will always love you, my sweet Alex.'

Brandon Paul, a guitarist who toured with Ligertwood as part of Icons of Classic Rock, also paid tribute. According to Daily Express - Showbiz, Paul described Ligertwood as a 'world-class professional' and said his voice was 'a force of nature – soulful, from the heart, and legendary every single night.' Paul added that 'beyond the music, he was an amazing human being and a dear friend,' and that 'having a vocalist who worked with icons like Carlos Santana and Jeff Beck compliment my guitar playing is something I will carry with me forever.' Ligertwood toured as part of the Icons of Classic Rock supergroup with guitarist Brandon Paul. Paul's tribute reflected the widespread admiration for Ligertwood's talent and character.