Carlos Santana's Success Story by Chris Elmore

He's a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, has sold more that 90 million records, and performed to over 100 million people globally.

He also supports countless charities and founded the Milagro Foundation in 1998, which has given more than $1.8M in grants to disadvantaged children.

He is Carlos Santana.

Today, he is best known the world over for the group that bears his name. However, he was once just like you, an unknown putting in the hard yards and learning to play an instrument he loved.

Born in Autlan de Navarro, Mexico, Santana followed in his father's musical footsteps and took up the violin at age five.

It was years later when his family moved to Tijuana that he began his lifelong relationship with the guitar, the instrument that would make him a musical icon.

In 1961, Santana moved from Mexico to San Francisco, and a few years later he formed the Santana Blues Band.

The cool, soulful riffs and rhythms of Santana's Latin-blues based sound were welcomed by an eager audience.

Massive success quickly followed. Santana was soon playing to packed houses around America. He performed on the Ed Sullivan show.

And he left an indelible mark on the global music world when he performed at the original Woodstock festival in 1969.

He has not slowed down since. His passion has never let up. I hope yours doesn't either!

About the Author

Chris Elmore is a pro guitarist who has featured on Channel 7 News, produced 3 CD's, and appeared on Hits FM Radio... as well as performed live on stage to thousands of people!

To learn more go to: http://www.guitarsongs.com.au