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Alan Fitzgerald, known to fans simply as “Fitz,” celebrates his 77th birthday on July 16, marking over five decades of a dynamic and influential career in rock music. Beginning as a bassist, Fitzgerald eventually transitioned to keyboards, a move that defined much of his most memorable work.
Fitzgerald’s journey started in 1974 when he joined Montrose, stepping in for original bassist Bill Church. He contributed to the band’s albums Paper Money and *Warner Bros.
Presents… Montrose!
- before parting ways. Following his departure, he reunited with Sammy Hagar, this time showcasing his talents on keyboards in Hagar’s solo band.
This instrumental shift proved pivotal. In 1980, Fitzgerald teamed up with guitarist Jeff Watson and three former members of Rubicon to form what would become Night Ranger. His synthesizer work became a signature element of the band’s sound, complementing their dual lead guitars and helping fuel hits like “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me” and the Top 5 ballad “Sister Christian.”
After leaving Night Ranger in 1988, Fitzgerald rejoined the band during their 1990s reunion, contributing to two additional albums. Parallel to this, he performed live keyboard duties for Van Halen from the early 1990s through 2004.
Later, Fitzgerald co-founded the melodic rock supergroup Alliance, alongside Gary Pihl, David Lauser, and Robert Berry-all seasoned veterans of the rock scene. The group’s creative process began in Sammy Hagar’s home studio, where the members exchanged and developed song ideas.
Fitzgerald played on Alliance’s first four albums before stepping away from touring, but his influence endures, especially within Night Ranger’s extensive catalog. Fans can look forward to a new Best Of collection from Night Ranger, set for release on August 28.
Reflecting on his long and varied career, Alan Fitzgerald’s legacy stands out not only for his early bass work but also for his significant contributions as a keyboardist-cementing his place in rock history.