Santana's "Supernatural" - Exposing The Young Generation

 

Many rock bands that formed in the 60s and 70s, continued their careers into the 80s, and even well into the 90s and beyond. One such band, Santana, happened to come back swinging in 1999 with their 18th album, Supernatural. With the album's new-old sound, relateable lyrics, and guest appearances - Supernatural helped expose a much younger fanbase to Santana's work. In fact, it's what got me into Santana.

All about The Features

What's most noteable is that over half the tracks on the album have featured vocals. Ranging from old-timers such as Eric Clapton, even to new artists such as Everlast and Dave Mathews, and even Lauryn Hill, the album has something for everyone. 

Adressing Popular Themes

Another positive of the album is the fact that most of the tracks address then very popular themes, such as of love, security, and struggles. The album's lead single, Smooth, featuring Rob Thomas of Matchbox 20 fame, is regarded as a Latin love song. The second single, Maria, Maria, features former Fugee Wycleaf Jean, and the little known Product GnB. That track contains elements of hip-hop and a backing acoustic Spanish guitar creating an interesting fusion of Santana's Latin roots, with then modern millenial production. 

Some of the album's singles were also released in Latin America only, and there are tracks in Spanish fit between the English ones. Most noteably the ballad Corazon Espinado ("Heart Beat") featuring vocalist Olivera P. In my opinion, that track sounds a lot like Smooth. Although not released as a single, Do You Like the Way? features Lauryn Hill, and then-rising star Cee-Lo Green. 

A killer concert

To promote the album, Santana held a memorable concert in San Francisco, performing nearly the whole album, plus a few older tracks. In addition, there is an apperance by Sarah McLachlan performing her recent track Angel, with Santana accompanying her on acoustic guitar.

A massive sucess

Supernatural helped many fans rediscover (and discover) Santana. Santana's attempt to creating a radio-friendly album were very well worth it, as the album was certified 15X platinum in the US alone in 2000 - not to mention, winning a whopping nine Grammy awards including Album of The Year and Best Rock Album. Carlos Santana is regarded as the first rock icon to win the Best Rock Album award.

Not just Grammys, but also three Latin Grammy awards - including Record of the Year. Arista Records manager, Clive Davis, was also honored with Album of The Year

From Columbia to Arista

Around the mid 1990s, Santa had waned in popularity and did not have a label. In 1998, Carlos Santana approached Clive Davis, former president of Columbia Records, who just so happened to sign Santana to that label three decades ago. The deal was finalized and the recording of the new album began.

Santana did not stop making collaboration. For the 2002 follow up, Shamai, Santana worked with Michelle Branch for The Game of Love, and several years later on I'm Feeling You, and Musiq Soulchild on the 2003 single Nothing at All. All these singles build on the foundation laid down with Supernatural - creating more radio-friendly hits, and increasing the audience.

Everyone should definitely listen to Supernatural.

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