… was born in Autlan de Navarro, Mexico, 59 years ago today. His family migrated to the U.S. in the 1960s.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame introduces inductee Santana this way —
Guitarist Carlos Santana is one of rock’s true virtuosos and guiding lights. Since 1966, he has led the group that bears his surname, selling over 30 million albums and performing before 13 million people. Though numerous musicians have passed through Santana’s ranks, the continuing presence of Carlos Santana at the helm has insured high standards. From the earliest days, when Santana first overlaid Afro-Latin rhythms upon a base of driving blues-rock, they have been musical sorcerers. The melodic fluency and kineticism of Santana’s guitar solos and the piercing, sustained tone that is his signature have made him one of rock’s standout instrumentalists. Coupled with the polyrhythmic fury of drums, congas and timbales, the sound of Santana in full flight is singularly exciting. Underlying it all is Santana’s belief that music should “create a bridge so people can have more trust and hope in humanity.”
Santana was the first rock concert I ever attended, way back around 1971 or so. Prior to that night, I had no idea I could dance or “rock out” but rock out I did indeed. I probably burned off 10 pounds that night in calories and sweat. Holy moly, that band could play!
Incidentally, the opening act that night was Cheech and Chong. Since it was “festival seating” (no chairs), they literally had us rolling on the floor laughing. I have rarely been entertained as thoroughly as I was that night, and, if I recall correctly, the admission price was a whopping $3.50. Those were the days.