Skip to content 
Discover Carlos Santana’s biography—his net worth, age, career, education, wife, iconic songs, and whether the legendary guitarist is still alive.
Highlights of Carlos Santana’s Biography
- Full Name: Carlos Humberto Santana Barragán
- Date of Birth: July 20, 1947
- Age: 78 years (as of 2025)
- Nationality: Mexican-American
- Profession: Guitarist, Musician, Songwriter, Band Leader
- Education: Mission High School, briefly attended California State University & San Francisco Art Institute
- Wife: Cindy Blackman Santana (married 2010)
- Children: 3
- Famous Songs: Black Magic Woman, Smooth, Oye Como Va, Maria Maria, Evil Ways
- Net Worth: Estimated $120 million
- Status: Alive (2025)
Carlos Santana is a world-renowned guitarist and music legend whose fusion of Latin rock, blues, jazz, and Afro-Cuban rhythms has influenced generations of musicians. Rising to fame in the late 1960s with his band Santana, he became one of the most recognizable guitarists in history.
With iconic tracks like “Smooth” and “Black Magic Woman”, Santana not only topped the charts but also redefined rock music by infusing it with Latin soul. His career spans over five decades, making him a global icon of creativity, resilience, and spiritual expression.
Early Life and Education
Carlos Santana was born on July 20, 1947, in Autlán de Navarro, Jalisco, Mexico. His father was a mariachi violinist, and music became part of his life from childhood. He moved to Tijuana, Mexico, and later to San Francisco, where he was exposed to rock, jazz, and American blues.
He attended Mission High School in San Francisco before briefly enrolling at California State University, Northridge and the San Francisco Art Institute. However, his passion for guitar led him to focus entirely on music.
Career
Breakthrough at Woodstock
Carlos Santana’s breakthrough came in 1969 when his band Santana performed at the legendary Woodstock Festival. Their electrifying performance of “Soul Sacrifice” made them instant stars and established Santana as a guitar genius.
Success in the 1970s
The band produced iconic albums such as Abraxas (1970), which featured hits like “Oye Como Va” and “Black Magic Woman.” Santana’s unique guitar tone, blending rock with Latin rhythms, became his trademark.
Revival in the 1990s
After decades of success, Santana made a historic comeback in 1999 with the album Supernatural. Featuring collaborations with artists like Rob Thomas, the single “Smooth” became a global hit, winning multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year.
Continued Legacy
Over the years, Santana has released more than 25 studio albums, sold over 100 million records, and won 10 Grammy Awards and 3 Latin Grammys. He remains active, touring worldwide and recording new music.
Wife and Family
Carlos Santana married Cindy Blackman Santana, a celebrated jazz and rock drummer, in 2010. The couple often performs together on stage, blending their musical talents.
Previously, Santana was married to Deborah Santana from 1973 to 2007, with whom he has three children: Salvador, Stella, and Angelica.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Carlos Santana’s net worth is estimated at $120 million. His income comes from decades of album sales, live concerts, royalties, and collaborations with world-class musicians. Despite his financial success, Santana is known for his philanthropy, supporting educational and cultural initiatives through the Milagro Foundation, which he co-founded.
Songs
Carlos Santana is known for timeless hits that span generations. Some of his most famous songs include:
- Black Magic Woman
- Oye Como Va
- Smooth (feat. Rob Thomas)
- Maria Maria
- Evil Ways
- Samba Pa Ti
- Corazón Espinado (feat. Maná)
- Europa (Earth’s Cry Heaven’s Smile)
These songs remain staples of rock and Latin music, showcasing his enduring artistry.
Dead or Alive?
As of 2025, Carlos Santana is alive at 78 years old. While he has faced some health challenges in recent years, including collapsing on stage in 2022 due to exhaustion, he continues to recover well and perform globally.
Wiki-Style Summary
- Name: Carlos Humberto Santana Barragán
- Born: July 20, 1947 (78 years old in 2025)
- Nationality: Mexican-American
- Profession: Guitarist, Musician, Songwriter
- Education: Mission High School, brief studies at California universities
- Wife: Cindy Blackman Santana
- Children: 3
- Net Worth: $120 million
- Famous Songs: Black Magic Woman, Smooth, Oye Como Va, Maria Maria
- Status: Alive
Conclusion
Carlos Santana’s life and career symbolize passion, persistence, and reinvention. From his Woodstock breakthrough to his Grammy-winning Supernatural comeback, he has continually reshaped music while staying true to his Latin roots.
His influence goes beyond the guitar—he has inspired unity through music, charity through his foundation, and spirituality through his artistry. At 78, Carlos Santana remains an immortal figure in the world of music, proving that true legends never fade.
FAQs About Carlos Santana
1. How old is Carlos Santana?
He is 78 years old as of 2025.
2. What is Carlos Santana’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated at $120 million.
3. Who is Carlos Santana’s wife?
He is married to drummer Cindy Blackman Santana.
4. What are Carlos Santana’s famous songs?
His most popular songs include Black Magic Woman, Smooth, Oye Como Va, and Maria Maria.
5. Is Carlos Santana alive?
Yes, as of 2025, he is alive and still performing.
6. What awards has Carlos Santana won?
He has won 10 Grammy Awards and 3 Latin Grammy Awards.
7. What is Carlos Santana’s legacy?
He is a pioneer of Latin rock, a global music icon, and a philanthropist dedicated to social change.
