Now Live a review and picture gallery of Ronnie Montrose Remembered!
Ronnie Montrose Remembered
The Grand Theatre
Anaheim, California
Friday January 26, 2024
When I heard that the annual Ronnie Montrose Remembered Concert was happening on January 24, 2024, I was ecstatic. After having attended several previous RMR concerts I knew that it would be a first-rate event. The show exceeded any expectations I already had. The tradition of excellence continues.
The concert started on time at 7:30pm with Keith St. John taking the audience along a journey of Ronnie Montrose history. As the frontman for 13 years and a talented musician in his own rite, he has been the face of this and all previous memorial concerts. St. John shared stories, sang, and played guitar. This year he also took over being the solo host. He did so with love, honesty, compassion and professionalism. I felt like I was home surrounded with good friends. I could see that the audience felt the same way. The evening flowed at a steady pace, with song after song highlighting Ronnie Montrose's career. It was evident that there was a deep admiration for the man. There were so many musicians jamming and into the music, as they fused their own music styles and techniques into each song with outstanding results. A special highlight for me was the uber talented Keith St. John singing "Tupelo Honey" of which Ronne Montrose's guitar styling made this song an instant long-lasting classic. Another of my favorites was "Town Without Pity", the Ronnie Montrose 1978 instrumental cover on this night played by the brilliant Mitch Perry. There was also an auction of three items on stage, a guitar, a Montrose signed tee shirt and one of Keith St. John's Montrose Paper Money album. The concert lasted a full entertaining three hours! Very few shows run this long and leave you wanting more.
This tribute concert was a way to celebrate the legacy and music of Ronnie Montrose, a world-famous guitarist known for his work with bands like Montrose and Gamma. He passed away on March 3, 2012, but he is fondly remembered by his fellow musicians and fans. Montrose's contribution to rock and heavy metal music was undeniable. From the beginning Ronnie Montrose gained the respect of his peers for his creative and experimental guitar skills. The self-titled 1973 album included the widely popular hit single "Rock Candy" with Sammy Hagar on vocals. From that album and going forward, Montrose changed the landscape of rock and metal for years to come.
As soon as I know the date of Ronnie Montrose Remembered 2025, I will post it here. Whether you are going to NAMM or not be sure not to miss this concert.
An enormous thank you to Keith St. John for taking the reins, putting in the time, and keeping Ronnie Montrose's legacy alive.
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A special shout out to all the consummate professional musicians who performed at the concert.
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Kudos to Shelley Klaner (Publicist) for her tireless work in promoting this concert.
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