Santana loves Indian ragas

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Long before the nomenclature ‘world music’ evolved, Carlos Santana’s sound had universal appeal. And with 10 Grammys, 100 million sold records and established fan base, Santana’s is one of the world’s best known musical signatures.

This month, the legendary guitarist and his band are on their maiden tour to India and will play in the city for FI Rocks.
On being asked about his performance in India, he says, “I feel inspired, grateful and honoured to be able to perform in India as I have always enjoyed Indian music. Especially, the classical music with its ragas that have meditative effect.”
He and his team will perform a two-and-half hour act at the concert. He promises, “It will surely not be boring and take you through a large collection of music.” Talking about the driving force behind his music, he says, “Through my entire career, I have realised that it is important to stay focused. Geniuses like Einstein, Sri Aurobindo and Leonardo da Vinci have all accomplished a lot through it. I always keep that in my mind and create my music.”
As a musician, whom does he idolise? “I like and admire all artists. I have colloborated with artists from various parts of the world, including Pandit Ravi Shankar and Andrea Boecelli and enjoyed playing with them.” Apart from singing for F1 rocks, he would love to visit temples in India. He adds that he is open to travelling to simple and modest places that give powerful messages as well.