Black Magic Woman

Experience the mystical allure of Santana's "Black Magic Woman," their iconic 1970 hit. Originally a Fleetwood Mac blues-rock track, Santana transformed it with signature Latin rhythms and Carlos Santana's searing guitar solos. This powerful fusion created an unforgettable classic, instantly recognizable from its evocative opening chords.

While penned by Peter Green and first recorded by Fleetwood Mac, "Black Magic Woman" became a worldwide smash for Santana in 1970. Featured on their monumental Abraxas album, Santana reimagined the blues-rock structure, adding layers of Latin percussion like congas and timbales, alongside Gregg Rolie's distinctive organ. Carlos Santana’s fluid guitar lines gave the song a fiery, improvisational feel that defined their unique sound and captivated a massive audience.

Released alongside the Abraxas album around September 23, 1970, Santana's version of "Black Magic Woman" soared up the charts, becoming one of their most enduring hits. Often presented seamlessly transitioning into the instrumental "Gypsy Queen," the combined track enhanced the song's hypnotic quality. Its success further cemented Santana's pioneering role in fusing blues rock foundations with complex Latin rhythms and jazz sensibilities, creating a timeless classic rock staple.

SONG MEANING: The lyrics portray a man who feels utterly spellbound by a mysterious and powerful woman. He believes she possesses a supernatural hold over him, comparing her influence to "black magic." He describes feeling helpless ("got your spell on me baby"), suggesting an intense, consuming, and perhaps detrimental infatuation he cannot escape, as she's "turning my heart into stone."