CONCERT REVIEW: Santana Rocks the CHI Health Center Omaha

Legendary guitarist and songwriter Carlos Santana, along with his wife and drummer Cindy, performing at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska on Saturday, April 9, 2022. What a killer set by Santana and his band. (Photo credit: Robert A Chadwick)

REVIEW BY DAVID TAYLOR and PHOTOS BY ROBERT A CHADWICK | Go Venue Magazine

Carlos Santana is one of those legendary guitar players, let alone musicians, that is still active to this day. His career, who he manages to stay relevant, spans SEVEN decades of music. His brand of Latin rock was brought to Omaha, Nebraska on Saturday, April 9 at the CHI Health Center.

Santana kicked off their set with “Soul Sacrifice”, which propelled them in the stratosphere back in 1969 when they played that at Woodstock. This band was electric! They know how to rock and groove. The audience responded to that by dancing. That is the goal, and Santana accomplished that. I was surprised Santana played some of their biggest hits early like their covers of “Oye Como Va”, “Evil Ways”, and “Black Magic Woman.” But, the audience was still vibing. Another surprise from the night was drummer Cindy Blackman Santana, also Carlos’s wife, just grooving to the kit. Very talented and unique. Also, shout out to vocalist Ray Greene, who brought out his trombone on a couple songs. As a fellow trombonist, I salute you. Let me talk about Carlos Santana, though. At age 74, the man is still an incredible guitar player, a plaything that PRS guitar with full of soul and groove. His solos are songs of their own, very melodic. They came out to play an encore, which featured his most recognizable song, “Smooth”. This was one of the most fun concerts I have ever been to. Such a very different atmosphere, in the most respectable way. I’m so glad Carlos Santana is still playing guitar to audiences to this day. He will always be a guitar hero to all.

All images © Robert A Chadwick
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