Smooth (featuring Rob Thomas)

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin the timeless hit "Smooth (featuring Rob Thomas)" by Santana from the iconic album Supernatural! This track, released in 1999, was a game-changer, blending Santana’s Latin rock roots with Rob Thomas’ pop-rock vocals from Matchbox Twenty. Did you know that "Smooth" almost didn’t feature Rob Thomas? Originally penned by Itaal Shur as "Room 17," the song was reworked by Thomas, who had George Michael in mind for the vocals. However, after Thomas laid down a demo, Santana and producer Matt Serletic knew he was the perfect fit. The song’s infectious cha-cha rhythm and Carlos Santana’s searing guitar riffs helped it dominate the Billboard Hot 100 for 12 weeks, making it the final number-one hit of the 1990s and the first of the 2000s. It even won three Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year in 2000!

Here’s a juicy tidbit from the song’s creation: Santana initially wasn’t sold on "Smooth." He thought it sounded too rough, comparing it to an unfinished painting. It reminded him of his 1971 track "Guajira" from Santana III, but with encouragement from Arista Records’ Clive Davis and A&R executive Pete Ganbarg, he embraced its modern vibe. Rob Thomas, reflecting on its legacy, once said in a New York Times interview, “To really appreciate ‘Smooth,’ you have to embrace how cheesy ‘Smooth’ is. It’s right in your face.” The song’s cultural impact is undeniable—it’s been memed online, inspiring a hilarious T-shirt that reads, “I’d Rather Be Listening to Grammy-Award Winning 1999 Hit Smooth By Santana Feat. Rob Thomas of Matchbox Twenty,” created by fan Nicholas Kula. Its ironic fandom even sparked a Kickstarter for "SMOOTHcon," a tongue-in-cheek celebration of the track’s nostalgic charm.

Now, let’s dive into how Carlos Santana, the heart of Santana, got his start. Born in Autlán de Navarro, Mexico, on July 20, 1947, Carlos began playing the violin at age five but switched to the guitar by eight, inspired by the vibrant sounds of Tijuana’s music scene. Influenced by blues legends like T-Bone Walker and B.B. King, as well as the local norteño music, he honed his craft in Tijuana bands. In the 1960s, his family moved to San Francisco, where he was swept up in the Bay Area’s rock revolution. In 1966, he formed the Santana Blues Band, catching the eye of promoter Bill Graham. Their electrifying performance at Woodstock in 1969, just weeks before their debut album dropped, catapulted them to fame. Hits like "Evil Ways" and later "Black Magic Woman" from 1970’s Abraxas solidified Santana’s unique fusion of rock, jazz, blues, and Afro-Cuban rhythms.

Carlos Santana’s spiritual journey also shaped his music. In the 1970s, he explored jazz-rock fusion, collaborating with artists like John McLaughlin, reflecting his admiration for Miles Davis. By 1992, he became a born-again Christian, viewing himself as a musical shaman delivering hope through songs. This philosophy culminated in Supernatural, a comeback orchestrated by Clive Davis, who paired Santana with contemporary artists like Rob Thomas to appeal to a new generation. The album sold over 30 million copies worldwide, proving Santana’s adaptability and enduring appeal. You can keep up with Santana’s latest tours and releases on their official website at santana.com, follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

For Zoo Freaks who can’t get enough, check out fan communities like the Smooth – Santana feat. Rob Thomas of Matchbox 20 Facebook group, which has over 7,400 members sharing memes and love for the song. Another great spot is Ultimate Santana, a fan site with detailed song breakdowns and band history. Whether you’re swaying to Carlos’ guitar or singing along to Rob’s “Man, it’s a hot one,” this track is a perfect vibe for our hippie DJ crew and all you freaks out there. Keep it smooth, Zoo Crew!