Tone Profile

The lead guitar tone is smooth and sustained, with a singing quality that emphasizes melody and emotion. It's a warm, overdriven sound that blends Latin rhythms with rock sensibilities.

Production Credits

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• The original recording featured Carlos Santana's signature guitar playing, emphasizing melodic phrasing and emotional expression.
• The guitar was likely recorded through a cranked Mesa/Boogie amp, known for its smooth overdrive and sustain.
• A Shure SM57 microphone was likely used to capture the amp's sound, a common choice for its clarity and ability to handle high sound pressure levels.
• The direct guitar signal may have been blended with the amp signal to add clarity and punch.

Recreation Tips

• Start with a guitar that has a warm, sustained tone, like a Yamaha SG2000 or similar humbucker-equipped guitar.
• Use a Mesa/Boogie Mark I or similar amp known for its smooth overdrive and sustain.
• Experiment with different overdrive and EQ settings on the amp to find the sweet spot that balances warmth and clarity.
• Use a Shure SM57 or similar dynamic microphone to capture the amp's sound.
• Consider blending a direct input signal with the amp signal for added clarity and punch.
• Focus on playing with smooth, expressive phrasing and vibrato to capture Santana's signature style.

Recommended Gear

• Yamaha SG2000(guitar)
• Mesa/Boogie Mark I(amp)
• Shure SM57(mic)