Santana criticizes guitarists with all speed and no feeling

Carlos Santana Speaking to Guitar World, he stated that he favors musicians who prioritize emotional expression over those who prioritize speed and guitar technique, underlining the importance of connecting with listeners on an emotional level.

This is the thought of the 78-year-old Mexican-born musician: “After all, music is not a sport, especially for those who listen. If you practice day and night going very fast, after a while it’s a bit like going to the gym and seeing someone flexing their muscles. So what? Playing with spirit is like giving someone a hug that lasts forever. Time stops.”

Santana he continued saying. “The only thing people will remember about your music is how you made them feel. They won’t remember all the fast scales and ‘Look what I can do!’ moments. But they will remember those three notes that made the hairs on the back of their necks stand up and the tears flow, even if they don’t know why. That’s a completely different element, which I call spirit. Some people don’t know how to play with spirit, heart and soul. Those are three very important ingredients.”

His words reflect his approach to the guitar which has consistently prioritized emotional connection over technical exhibitionism. Santana’s mastery lies not in raw speed, but in timing and phrasing.