As eclectic and paradoxical as its subject, this is the first and only book about Carlos Santana that reveals the full sweep of his musical odyssey.

Carlos Santana: A Biography explores the life and music of this extraordinary guitarist, ranging from his professional beginnings—his first regular gig was at a Tijuana strip club—and early success in San Francisco to the definitive songs and albums of the 1970s, the commercial resurgence with 1999's Supernatural, his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and his current work with producer Bill Laswell.

Unlike other biographies, this book offers a comprehensive look at Santana's transitions through a variety of musical styles beyond rock, including blues, salsa, jazz, and world music. It also portrays Santana as very much a child of the eclectic musical culture of the 1960s, as well as showing the profound influence of the New Age movement on Santana's life and music.