Today marks the 78th birthday of the iconic Mexican‑born American guitarist Carlos Santana, born on July 20, 1947, in Autlán de Navarro, Mexico.
From his early years learning violin under his father’s guidance, Santana found his true passion for the guitar at the age of eight. By the mid-1960s, his passion for music had driven him to move to San Francisco and form the Santana Blues Band, later simply known as Santana.
The band’s electrifying performance at Woodstock in 1969, and the Grammy-winning release Supernatural (1999) — featuring hits like ‘Smooth’ and ‘Maria Maria’ — cemented his status as a trailblazer melding rock, jazz, blues and Latin rhythms
Over his star-studded career, Santana has earned multiple Grammy Awards — including his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (1998) and a Kennedy Center Honor (2013).
He remains active both on stage and in the studio. His latest album ‘Sentient’ is slated for release later this year.
Fans around the world are sending birthday wishes today, celebrating Santana’s enduring musical genius and his message of hope, healing and unity. Happy birthday to a true legend!