I had a guru in India who taught spiritual discipline: Carlos Santana

Carlos Santana said when asked how he managed to maintain his prolific music career; musician to play in the country next week

When Carlos Santana emerged on the music scene in the mid ’60s, he achieved something unprecedented — through his intricate yet impressively clean guitar-playing technique, he bridged the gap between Latin American, rock, jazz-fusion and Afro styles of music. Having influenced at least three generations of guitarists across the world since, Santana will debut in India with a two-city tour. The 65-year-old musician will perform at the Vladivar Rock ’N India concert in Bengaluru and F1 Rocks with Vladivar in Delhi next week. Here, he shares his plans during the visit.

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Considering the huge fan base that you have in India, what took you so long to come here?
Let’s just say the situation didn’t lend itself for me to come. I am honoured, excited and grateful at the prospect of playing for my fans (in India). I love the idea of playing live…. If you see lions being fed in a zoo, they roar for more. This is the effect playing live has on me and my fans.

What can we expect from the shows in India?
Three hours of pure music from yesterday, today and tomorrow.

Shape Shifter is your 36th album. In your career spanning four decades, how have you managed to be so prolific?
I have been guided by my mother and father to be disciplined, to play with joy, consistency, responsibility and punctuality. I had a guru from 1972 to 1981 in India who taught me spiritual discipline. I learnt about Swami Vivekananda, Swami Yogananda and Sri Aurobindo. They taught silence of mind and inner focus. This created fresh energy and music, which has been loved unabatedly by the people from Africa to Japan to India.

Any Indian artistes you admire or would like to collaborate with?
Sure. Find me the right song.

What led you to start a chain of Mexican restaurant, Maria Maria?
Spice of life. We are now starting Black Magic Woman in Vegas.

Besides performing, are there any other cultural experiences you are looking forward to in India?
I am looking to visit a lot of temples... I have this deep appreciation for the textures, imagery and kindness at Indian temples.

Catch Santana live in Bengaluru on Oct 26 and Delhi on Oct 28.

Tickets on www.ticketgenie.in