Alex Ligertwood, the Scottish-born singer known for multiple stints as the lead vocalist of Santana, dies at age 79. Several outlets report that his death is confirmed by family members and his representation. The Los Angeles Times says his wife and agent confirm the death in a social media post on Saturday evening. Stereogum and other coverage also cite social media announcements, including one attributed to his daughter.
Ligertwood’s time with Santana runs from 1979 to 1994, during which the band records six studio albums, according to Consequence of Sound. He also appears as Santana’s frontman during the group’s performance at Live Aid in 1985. Beyond Santana, outlets note he performs with other groups, including the Jeff Beck Group and Average White Band, as highlighted by NME.
The Scotsman reports that he dies peacefully in his sleep. Stereogum adds that Ligertwood dies at home in Santa Monica, California, on Saturday, and that no cause of death is reported.
