Carlos Santana Talks Michael Jackson’s Death
Carlos Santana Reflects on ‘Sentient’ and His Powerful Collaborations with Michael Jackson
Legendary guitarist Carlos Santana is gearing up to release his highly anticipated new album, Sentient, which promises to showcase a stellar lineup of collaborations with some of the greatest musical icons of our time. Among these collaborations is one with none other than the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, a relationship Santana has long cherished. The album will include a haunting instrumental cover of Jackson’s “Stranger in Moscow,” recorded live in 2007, but what many fans may not know is that this track was never officially released — until now.
This striking re-imagining of “Stranger in Moscow” sets the stage for “Whatever Happens,” a collaboration between Santana and Jackson from the latter’s 2001 Invincible album. The contrast between the two tracks is undeniable, with Jackson’s voice in “Whatever Happens” sounding almost like a resurrection, evoking a sense of reverence and reflection.
Throughout his career, Santana has fiercely defended Jackson, especially in light of the troubling allegations that haunted the pop star’s life. In his 2014 memoir, Santana candidly shared his own experience of surviving sexual assault during his childhood, revealing the harrowing abuse he suffered at the hands of an American tourist. Yet, despite the accusations against Jackson, Santana remains steadfast in his belief that Michael did not commit similar offenses.
In his own words, Santana explained, “The hostile forces on this planet have an agenda, and that’s to destroy your light. Michael Jackson performed fantastic things with his money for children, and the antagonistic forces didn’t like it.” Santana’s sentiment suggests a deep, spiritual understanding of the challenges Jackson faced, adding that he believes these “hostile forces” are part of a darker, malevolent energy that seeks to dim the light of those who bring positivity into the world.
When asked to elaborate on these “dark forces,” Santana was candid. “The hostile forces are Satan, Lucifer, and the Devil,” he said with certainty. For Santana, both his and Jackson’s work are threats to this darkness because they shine a light on humanity, making others feel worthy of sharing their own light.
“The point is to shine your light,” Santana says, “because when you do, you expose the darkness.”
As Sentient prepares to hit the shelves, Santana’s reflections on his collaborations with Jackson offer an intimate glimpse into the soul of a musician who not only reveres the artistry of his peers but also views music as a spiritual force — one that can lift us all, even in the face of adversity.
Stay tuned for Sentient and the continued musical magic between Carlos Santana and Michael Jackson.