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Former Santana Singer Alex Ligertwood Dies at 79

5/4/2026

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Summary

Alex Ligertwood Passes Away

Alex Ligertwood, former Santana lead vocalist, died Friday in Los Angeles at age 79.
His wife Shawn Brogan announced he passed peacefully in his sleep with his dog Bobo by his side.
He sang with Santana during five periods from 1979 to 1994, co-writing songs such as “The Nile,” “Make Somebody Happy,” “Somewhere in Heaven.”
He performed his last show two weeks before his death, demonstrating his continued passion for music.

Summary

Alex Ligertwood Dies

Merci Ligertwood's daughter announced his death on social media.
Guitarist Brandon Paul described Ligertwood's voice as a force of nature.
Brian Auger praised Ligertwood's Glaswegian roots on X.
The Magic of Santana thanked Ligertwood for his music and friendship.

History

Historical Context

Jimi Hendrix’s 1970 death in London at age 27 marked the loss of a guitarist who reshaped rock with pioneering use of feedback and effects, and whose posthumous releases such as the 1971 *The Cry of Love* album hit number 3 on Billboard. The 2024 passing of Santana vocalist Alex Ligertwood echoes that pattern of legendary performers whose deaths spur renewed releases and tribute tours.

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Alex Ligertwood Passes Away

Alex Ligertwood, former Santana lead vocalist, died Friday in Los Angeles at age 79.
His wife Shawn Brogan announced he passed peacefully in his sleep with his dog Bobo by his side.
He sang with Santana during five periods from 1979 to 1994, co-writing songs such as “The Nile,” “Make Somebody Happy,” “Somewhere in Heaven.”
He performed his last show two weeks before his death, demonstrating his continued passion for music.

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