Lee Ritenour has been the subject of occasional misinformation about his health or passing in recent years, but credible reports confirm he is alive as of the latest updates in 2025–2026. For the most reliable, current coverage, check established music outlets or major news organizations’ entertainment sections.
Key points from recent coverage:
- Death hoax rumors about Ritenour circulated in late 2025 but were officially denied by his representatives, who stated he is alive and well.[1]
- In 2022 and 2024, interviews and profiles highlighted his ongoing musical activity and recent projects, reinforcing that he remains active in the industry.[3][9][10]
- His official site and major guitar publications have continued to post news and updates about tours, releases, and collaborations, indicating current engagement with music rather than hiatus.[5][8]
If you’d like, I can pull the very latest articles from specific outlets (e.g., Guitar World, Guitar Player, or his official site) and summarize them, or set up a quick feed of headlines focusing on his current activities (new releases, tours, or projects) with citations.
Sources
Welcome to the official Lee Ritenour Website. Check Lee's latest News, Recordings, Upcoming Tour Dates and more.
leeritenour.comFirst came the house fire. Then heart surgery. Now Ritenour bounces back with his first ever solo guitar record.
www.guitarplayer.comA message from Lee Ritenour: I would like to acknowledge the incredible outpouring of love and support from fans, friends & family for 2 life changing events. Recently, I found out that I needed to have a medical procedure that could not wait and resulted in canceling my recent tour to Japan, Hong Kong, Korea, & New York.
tomriepl.comTwo thousand fifteen marks 40 years since the release of Grammy-winning guitarist Lee Ritenour’s debut solo album, First Course. To help commemorate the occasion, Ritenour has gone back into his vast archive of musical material—one that spans 40 albums—to release A Twist of Rit.
www.guitarworld.comNews of guitarist Lee Ritenour’s death spread quickly earlier this week, causing concern among fans across the world. However, the November 2025 report has now been confirmed as a complete hoax, Fourplay ex-guitarist is alive and well.
en.mediamass.netMY PROG HERO Inspiring the wider music world…
pocketmags.comWith thousands of sessions to his name the guitarist talks definitive solo records and collaborations from his multi-genre catalog.
www.guitarplayer.comWelcome to the official Lee Ritenour Website. Check Lee's latest News, Recordings, Upcoming Tour Dates and more.
leeritenour.com