LOS ANGELES —Santana lead vocalist and Watsonville native Andy Vargas struck world-wide fame over a decade ago when he became the lead singer for the iconic rock band, led by 12-time Grammy Award-winning artist Carlos Santana.
Twenty world tours later, Vargas is now stepping out on his own with an up-tempo, soul-rock single, “The Beat,” out now on Hip Spanic & Souleros Records. “The Beat” showcases Vargas’ signature Latin R&B sound – Souleros – a blend of “soul” and “boleros” influenced by classic funk and R&B and soul music. Souleros is also the name of his band.
“The Beat” will also be featured by ESPN’s “Music Of The Month” series this month.
“It is such a privilege to be recognized by the world as the voice for the legendary Santana,” Vargas state. “For many years, I have performed alongside my mentor, Carlos, who has always taught me to reach greater lengths in my career. I have learned so much about music through world cultures and have been influenced by world class artists I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with over the years. It’s an honor to now showcase my own music, which I consider to be the sound of the ‘New Chicano Soul,’ alongside my band Souleros.”
2019 will be an exciting and action-packed year for Vargas. In addition to releasing the English and Spanish versions of “The Beat,” he will release his full-length, solo debut album in August, preceded by several singles (including a guest appearance from Carlos Santana on a new version of “Oye Como Va”).
Vargas will also embark on a worldwide tour with Santana in celebration of 50 years of Santana’s music and the 50th Anniversary of Santana’s Woodstock performance (including a performance on the iconic Woodstock Stage at Woodstock 50). It will also mark the 20th anniversary of Santana’s ‘Supernatural’ album.
The “Supernatural Now” tour with the Doobie Brothers kicks off June 22 and includes headlining dates at the Hollywood Bowl on June 24th and a series of New York area dates in late August. The band will perform locally in Mountain View at the Shorline Amphitheatre on June 26.
Vargas’ soul-tinged voice has also graced stages with artists such as Enrique Iglesias, Patti Labelle, Taboo of the Black-Eyed Peas and Yanni.
For information on “The Beat” visit andyvargas.com. For more on Santana’s upcoming tour visit tour.santana.com.
