Santana feat. Rob Thomas - Smooth - 1999
Santana feat. Rob Thomas - Smooth - 1999
Introduction
"Smooth" is a collaboration between the legendary guitarist Carlos Santana and Matchbox Twenty's lead vocalist Rob Thomas. Released in 1999, this song became a massive hit, defining the sound of the late '90s. It featured on Santana's album "Supernatural," which played a significant role in reviving Santana's career, showcasing his timeless appeal and ability to blend with contemporary artists. The song is known for its blend of rock, Latin, and blues sounds, which created a unique and appealing musical experience.
Background
The collaboration between Santana and Rob Thomas was not initially planned. The song was written by Rob Thomas and Itaal Shur, and Thomas originally recorded the vocals as a demo for Santana to consider other singers. However, Santana was so impressed by Thomas's performance that he decided Thomas should be the vocalist for the song.
Production
The production of "Smooth" involved a blend of live instrumentation and studio technology to create its distinctive sound. Santana's guitar solos, combined with a rhythm section that included congas, bongos, and timbales, provided a Latin rock feel that complemented Thomas's vocal style.
Lyrics and Theme
The lyrics of "Smooth" speak about love and passion, using the hot weather as a metaphor for intense emotions. The chorus, "It's a hot one, like seven inches from the midday sun," captures the song's essence, blending sensual imagery with the warmth of the Latin-inspired melody.
Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "Smooth" received widespread acclaim, both commercially and critically. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart and won three Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals. It played a significant role in the success of the "Supernatural" album, which went on to win nine Grammy Awards, making Santana a household name once again.
Music Video
The music video for "Smooth" further cemented the song's popularity. It featured Santana and Thomas performing in a street festival atmosphere, surrounded by dancers and musicians, capturing the song's energetic and festive spirit.
Impact
"Smooth" is often cited as one of the greatest pop collaborations of all time. Its success in the late '90s contributed to the resurgence of Latin influences in mainstream pop and rock music. The song remains a staple on radio playlists and has been covered and sampled by various artists across different genres.
Interactive Tasks
Quiz: Questions on the song
Who originally wrote "Smooth"? (Rob Thomas and Itaal Shur) (!Carlos Santana and Rob Thomas) (!Itaal Shur and Michelle Branch) (!Rob Thomas and Santana)
In what year was "Smooth" released? (1999) (!1997) (!2000) (!2001)
For which album was "Smooth" recorded? (Supernatural) (!Abraxas) (!Shaman) (!Maroon 5)
How many Grammy Awards did "Smooth" win? (3) (!2) (!4) (!1)
What genre of music does "Smooth" primarily represent? (Latin Rock) (!Pure Rock) (!Pop) (!Blues)
Quiz: Questions on the Performer
Which band is Rob Thomas the lead vocalist for? (Matchbox Twenty) (!Maroon 5) (!Coldplay) (!The Rolling Stones)
From which country is Carlos Santana originally? (Mexico) (!Spain) (!Brazil) (!United States)
In which year was Santana's album "Supernatural" released? (1999) (!1998) (!2000) (!2001)
How many Grammy Awards did Santana's album "Supernatural" win? (9) (!8) (!7) (!10)
What is Santana best known for? (His guitar skills) (!His drumming) (!His vocal performance) (!His piano playing)
Quiz: Questions on the lyrics
What metaphor is used in "Smooth" to describe intense emotions? (The hot weather) (!The ocean) (!The desert) (!A storm)
What is the opening line of "Smooth"? ("It's a hot one") (!"Like seven inches from the midday sun") (!"Give me your heart, make it real") (!"Or else forget about it")
Which instrument is prominently featured in "Smooth"? (Guitar) (!Piano) (!Drums) (!Violin)
What theme do the lyrics of "Smooth" primarily focus on? (Love and passion) (!Loneliness) (!Adventure) (!Friendship)
How does the song "Smooth" describe the singer's feelings? (Like being close to the midday sun) (!Cold as ice) (!Lost in the rain) (!Floating in space)
Memory
| Rob Thomas | Lead vocalist of Matchbox Twenty |
| Carlos Santana | Legendary guitarist |
| 1999 | Year "Smooth" was released |
| Supernatural | Album featuring "Smooth" |
| Grammy Awards | "Smooth" won three |
Open Tasks
Easy
- Research the influence of Latin music on pop: Look into how Latin music has influenced the pop and rock genres from the 1990s to today.
- Create a playlist: Compile a playlist of songs that feature similar collaborations between artists of different genres.
- Discuss the theme of love in music: Explore how love is depicted in different songs and genres, including "Smooth".
Standard
- Analyze "Smooth" lyrics: Dive deeper into the lyrics of "Smooth" and discuss the use of metaphors and imagery.
- Compare and contrast: Select another song that won the Grammy for Record of the Year and compare it with "Smooth" in terms of theme, musical style, and cultural impact.
Difficult
- Study the guitar techniques of Carlos Santana: Analyze and learn about the unique guitar style and techniques used by Santana in "Smooth" and other songs.
- Write an essay on the impact of "Supernatural": Discuss the cultural and musical impact of Santana's "Supernatural" album on the music industry.
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Oral Exam
- Discuss the significance of musical collaborations: Explore the impact and significance of musical collaborations between artists from different genres, using "Smooth" as a case study.
- Analyze the revival of artists' careers: Discuss how collaborations with contemporary artists can revive the careers of legendary musicians.
- Explore the role of music awards: Debate the importance and influence of music awards, such as the Grammys, on artists' careers and music popularity.
- Examine the fusion of musical styles: Discuss the blending of Latin, rock, and other musical styles in "Smooth" and its contribution to the song's success.
- Evaluate the lasting appeal of "Smooth": Discuss why "Smooth" has remained popular over the years and its place in music history.
OERs on the Topic
Links
MUSIC QUIZ
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