Trigger warning: this is a bit of sad story. I didn't share this on my main socials, because it's not a plea for sympathy or attention, but rather a reflection on the connection between the guitar and player or audience.

I've always thought this song was heartbreakingly beautiful. It's moving and emotive, even in its simplicity.

I recently lost my father unexpectedly. He and I attended some Santana concerts, and he was a big fan. I heard this song during dinner, and I broke down in front of my wife and son. Later on, I picked up my guitar to noodle a bit, and found myself accidentally stumbling upon the riff, so I decided to see it through and figure out the rest of the main hook. The little legato run at the end was difficult for me to pick out by ear, but it's fairly simple and fun to play.

I often find myself turning to or relating to music during hard times. Several years ago, my wife and I attended an Eric Clapton concert. I remember being moved during his performance of "Tears in Heaven", knowing how the song came into being. At the time, we were expecting. We found out shortly after the show that the baby had suffered a demise in utero due to a rare trisomy disorder. Now it's difficult for me to listen to Clapton, especially Tears in Heaven, though I do find some catharsis in it.

Thanks for letting me ramble. I guess my point here is that guitar is more than just some wood with strings attached. It's rhe full spectrum of emotion, able to immediately express exactly what its wielder (or listener) is experiencing with no words spoken. Take care everybody, and good luck on your musical journey.

Samba Pa Ti (and a sad story)