Carlos Santana: “I Am Not What Happened to Me”

Carlos Santana is celebrated worldwide as the guitar visionary whose fusion of Latin rhythms, rock, blues and jazz created one of the most distinctive sounds in popular music.

From Santana’s unforgettable appearance at Woodstock in 1969 to classics such as “Black Magic Woman,” “Oye Como Va” and “Evil Ways,” and the spectacular revival sparked by Supernatural, “Smooth” and “Maria Maria,” his music has crossed generations, genres and cultures.

In this deeply personal episode of A Breath of Fresh Air, Carlos joins Sandy Kaye for a conversation that goes far beyond his extraordinary musical career.

He speaks candidly about the sexual abuse he endured as a child and the anger, fear and mistrust that followed. Carlos explains how forgiving the person who abused him became an essential part of his recovery, allowing him to understand that he was not defined by what had happened to him.

Carlos traces his spiritual awakening to 1972, when Autobiography of a Yogi, John McLaughlin and the teachings of Sri Chinmoy opened the door to a new way of thinking. He also acknowledges the influence of Aretha Franklin, John Coltrane, George Harrison and Carole King, whose music helped him find what he calls his “heart centre.”

That spiritual transformation also changed Santana’s musical direction. Carlos recalls being warned that he was committing career suicide by refusing to recreate Abraxas. Instead, he chose growth, trusting that songs such as “Maria Maria” and “Smooth” were still waiting to be discovered.

He shares the story behind his collaboration with Rob Thomas, explains why “Smooth” was the final song recorded for Supernatural and reveals why commercial success is never his primary goal. Rather than trying to manufacture a hit, Carlos wants each piece of music to feel like a heartfelt embrace.

The conversation explores meditation, vulnerability, marriage, happiness and the importance of silencing the negative voices of the mind. Carlos offers practical advice for anyone curious about meditation and explains why patience, self-acceptance and recognising one’s own worth are central to his daily life.

Carlos also discusses Sentient, his hopes for a future “church of self-worth” and his plans for life when touring is no longer his priority. Honest, humorous, provocative and inspiring, this is Carlos Santana as few people have heard him: not only a legendary guitarist, but a survivor and spiritual seeker determined to use music as a source of healing, hope and light.

This is a must listen episode with Santana as you've never heard him before.

Source: https://www.abreathoffreshair.com.au

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