Cindy Blackman a versatile music enthusiast from a young age,
Cindy Blackman a versatile music enthusiast from a young age, Santana absorbed a wide range of styles – funk, jazz, classical, and rock – growing up in Yellow Springs, Ohio. This exposure fueled her musical journey. Formally trained at the Hartt School of Music and Berklee College of Music, she later opted for the stage, joining The Drifters in a bold move that launched her professional career.
Cindy Blackman Santana’s musical path was paved by a rich tapestry of influences. Growing up in Yellow Springs, Ohio, she immersed herself in funk, jazz, classical, and rock, fostering a love for diverse sounds. This early exposure fueled her decision to pursue music professionally. Despite attending prestigious institutions like the Hartt School of Music and Berklee College of Music, the call of the stage proved stronger. A bold move to join The Drifters marked the official launch of her career, offering valuable experience and stability even if it wasn’t her ideal genre.
This early experience proved to be a stepping stone. In 1993, fate intervened with a cross-country call. A chance encounter with Lenny Kravitz, facilitated by a mutual friend, led to an audition for his music video, “Are You Gonna Go My Way.” Her talent shone through a pool of 40 drummers, and Lenny famously called off the search after her performance, declaring, “No, I choose Cindy.” This fortuitous connection blossomed into a nearly two-decade partnership. As Lenny Kravitz’s touring drummer, she became a fixture on the road, immortalized in the concert documentary “Alive from Planet Earth.” Looking back, she describes this period with fondness, calling it “quite an amazing run.”
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