Carlos Santana discusses witnessing Jimi Hendrix’s greatest live performance
Carlos Santana recently shared his unforgettable experience of attending a concert by legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix at the Northern California Folk-Rock Festival. Santana, now 77 years old, reminisced about the event that took place in Santa Clara County Fairgrounds in San Jose, California, between May 23 and May 25 in 1969. He expressed that watching Hendrix perform live was the best show he had ever seen.
During the podcast ‘In Service Of,’ Carlos Santana described the performance as otherworldly, stating that Hendrix’s guitar-playing was beyond comparison. Santana marveled at the way Hendrix painted his guitar with music, calling it a galactic experience that was truly unbelievable. Despite having seen Hendrix perform multiple times, Santana emphasized that the show at the Santa Clara Fairgrounds was exceptional and unforgettable.
Santana acknowledged that the psychedelic effects of LSD, a drug he and the audience consumed, may have enhanced their perceptions of the concert. He recounted how Hendrix’s performance transported everyone to an ethereal place within the universe and back with each note he played. The atmosphere was surreal, leaving the audience in awe of Hendrix’s musical prowess and stage presence.
Reflecting on his youth in San Francisco, Santana spoke fondly of attending concerts at the Fillmore, an iconic venue that he considered to be his alma mater. He reminisced about seeing bands like Cream, Arthur Brown, The Who, Howlin’ Wolf, Steve Miller, and Chuck Berry, absorbing every musical note like a sponge. Santana’s love for music and his willingness to learn from a variety of artists shaped his own musical journey and contributed to his growth as a musician.
Although known to younger generations for songs like ‘Smooth,’ Santana emphasized that the band’s message and music are intended to resonate with audiences of all ages. Through their music, Santana and his band strive to connect with listeners on a deeper level, sharing their passion for music and spreading positivity through their songs.
As the conversation about Hendrix’s iconic performance continues to inspire music enthusiasts, Santana’s firsthand account offers a glimpse into the transformative power of live music and the lasting impact it can have on both performers and audiences. Watching Jimi Hendrix perform live remains a cherished memory for Carlos Santana, a testament to the enduring influence of legendary musicians and their ability to captivate and inspire generations of fans.