From his humble childhood in Jalisco, Mexico, to playing clubs Tijuana, then on to San Francisco, Carlos Santana has become one of the most legendary guitarists/performers of all time. Carlos’ big break came when he gained the attention of Bill Graham, who eventually arranged for his band, Santana, to perform at the Woodstock Music and Arts Festival, even though their debut album hadn’t been released yet.

From the beginning of “Soul Sacrifice” during his show at at SDSU’s Open Air Theatre, you knew this was going to be a great night for the sold out crowd. Carlos’ guitar sound, influenced early in his career by blues greats B.B. King and John Lee Hooker, was as distinctive as ever. Those in attendance were also lucky to see Santana perform in a much smaller amphitheater than they usually perform in. (Their next concert was at San Francisco’s AT&T Park.)

Photos: Santana at Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre