Carlos Santana turned 70-years old yesterday.
Let that sink in.
And then note that he’s got a new album out, “Power of Peace” a collaboration with the Islely Brothers that puts a funky, soulful spin on African rhythms, PLUS he’s on tour.
Carlos had just turned 22, in August, 1969, when he and his band played Woodstock; the set included their first hit single “Evil Ways,” with lead vocalist Gregg Rolie (also 22, and who eventually joined Journey).
We Boomers may sometimes idolize our music stars, imbue them with wisdom and smarts they may or may not have. But you have to admit Carlos is a good role model for any generation—he’s got a strong work ethic, he’s in good enough physical shape to tour, and his chops are sharp enough to release two new albums—he and these other Boomers, who are also hitting 70 this year, and still perfomring, are inspirational: Elton John, Iggy Pop, Emmy Lou Harris and that same former band mate, Gregg Rolie—good role models, all.
Happy Birthday, Carlos Santana.