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After more than 40 years in the music business, 100 million records sold and 10 Grammy Awards, legendary guitarist Carlos Santana believes there's just two important things in life.
"Light and love: that will get it done," he told the crowd Tuesday during his sold-out show at Red Butte Garden
Of course, magical guitar playing helps, too.
And that's what Santana and his impressive band of vocalists and percussionists offered during a two-hour and 15 minute show.
Even the weather, rainy earlier in the day, cleared by show time, offering fans nearly perfect concert-going conditions.
Highlights • Santana's signature guitar playing was mesmerizing. His music is so easy to distinguish whether he's rocking the familiar "Evil Ways," playing Latin off his latest album Corazón or offering something completely unexpected — like a riff of "Favorite Things" from the "Sound of Music" or the cover of The Champs hit "Tequila." Santana also surrounds himself with a talented band of musicians including an impressive percussion section that includes Jose "Pepe" Jimenez on drums, keyboardist Dave Matthews and trumpeter Bill Ortiz.
Fan favorites • While everyone was on their feet and dancing during the instrumentals, the energy bumped up when the crowd could sing along to old favorites including "Black Magic Woman," "Maria Maria," "Oy como Va," and "Smooth," off 1999's Album of the Year, Supernatural.
Best Quote • "Turn off CNN and the bad news and turn on your own light because you have in you beauty, elegance and grace. Turn off the TV because most of the time it is sh*t."
In the crowd • Santana has gathered a diverse, all- ages fan base, but Baby Boomers, happy to relive a bit of the '60s and '70s, were the clear majority at this Utah show.
Low note • Santana may be a legend, but the $100 ticket price surely limited who could attend.
Opener • Who needs a warm up band when Santana's in town?
Next Up • John Hiatt & The Combo with Taj Mahal Trio on Sunday, Aug. 3 at 7 p.m. Tickets still available for $42 or $37 for garden members. Children 3-12, $27.