Bands & artists like Carlos Santana

If you like Carlos Santana, these artists play in similar sounds, ideas, or styles. Use this as a starting point to branch out and find something new to listen to.

New to Carlos Santana? Start with our listening guide.

Artists to try next

Los Lobos

Los Lobos

They incorporate a mix of rock, blues, and traditional Mexican music with strong guitar work and rich rhythms that resonate with Santana's style.

Americana Chicano rock country rock
Tito Puente

Tito Puente

As a legendary percussionist, his vibrant Latin jazz compositions showcase intricate rhythms that complement Santana's percussive layers.

music of Latin America salsa
Maná

Maná

Guide

This rock band from Mexico blends Latin pop with rock elements, featuring melodic guitar lines and rhythmic complexity akin to Santana's sound.

Latin alternative rock en español
Rubén Blades

Rubén Blades

His fusion of salsa with rock influences showcases storytelling lyrics and vibrant instrumentation that align with Santana's musical ethos.

rock music salsa world music
Os Mutantes

Os Mutantes

Their psychedelic rock infused with Brazilian tropicália shares a vibrant energy and experimental spirit that parallels Santana's innovative approach.

música popular brasileira
Gipsy Kings

Gipsy Kings

Known for their flamenco-influenced pop music, their passionate guitar work and rhythmic flair echo the Latin roots found in Santana's music.

flamenco
Paco de Lucía

Paco de Lucía

Guide

His virtuosic flamenco guitar playing incorporates elements of jazz and rock, creating an expressive sound that aligns with Santana's guitar-driven style.

classical music flamenco jazz
Celia Cruz

Celia Cruz

As the queen of salsa, her powerful vocals and lively rhythms bring an energetic Latin flair that resonates with the groove-centric nature of Santana’s work.

Cuban rumba salsa

Common questions

Who sounds like Carlos Santana?

Artists similar to Carlos Santana include Los Lobos, Tito Puente, Maná and Rubén Blades. Each shares elements of Carlos Santana's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is Carlos Santana?

Carlos Santana is primarily known for rock music and music of Latin America. Santana’s music pulses with a vibrant groove, marked by compelling guitar lines that weave through intricate percussive layers, creating an immersive rhythmic conversation.

Where should I start if I like Carlos Santana?

If you enjoy Carlos Santana, start with Los Lobos — their album "This Time" is a great entry point. They incorporate a mix of rock, blues, and traditional Mexican music with strong guitar work and rich rhythms that resonate with Santana's style.