But for his latest album, the guitar god
took on some timeless songs from others. "Guitar Heaven ... The Greatest
Guitar Classics of All Time," was created by Santana and music mogul Clive
Davis as a collection of covers of some of the best-known songs in rock.
"These songs ... to me, are like women that belonged to Jimi Hendrix and
Eric Clapton," said Santana in a recent interview. "I had the courage
to take them out on a date. I feel very grateful, and pretty certain that if I
take them out they will go out with me again." The guitarist paired up
with several singers on the album. Chris Daughtry helps provide an updated
version of Def Leppard's "Photograph." Gavin Rossdale lends energy to
T. Rex's "Bang A Gong" and a soulful India.Arie gives The Beatles'
"While My Guitar Gently Weeps" an earthy vibe. Santana is also
working on original material. The album "Shape Shifter" is set for
release next spring. Before that, though, he'll take on something closer to his
heart: Santana and Cindy Blackman, his drummer, plan to marry Dec. 19 in Maui,
Hawaii.
