"Africa Speaks" is the twenty-fifth studio album by the renowned American rock band Santana, helmed by lead guitarist Carlos Santana. Released on June 7, 2019, the record features multiple Spanish-language tracks and infuses various elements of African music, reflecting a distinct departure from the band's rock roots in favor of a more world music-oriented sound.
As a collaborative work between the band and famed producer Rick Rubin, the album was recorded in Rubin's Shangri La Studios in Malibu. Carlos Santana credited his wife, Cindy Blackman, for connecting him with the music that inspired the album's Afro-centric theme.
Guest artists on the album include Buika, a notable Spanish singer, who provided vocals for a majority of the album tracks. Other notable contributors include British artist Laura Mvula and Grammy award-winning singer Concha Buika, both making significant contributions to the record.
The album's tracklist features thirteen songs, focusing on themes predominantly revolving around a love for Africa, its culture, and its music, as well as delivering messages of unity and understanding. Songs such as "Los Invisibles" and the title track "Africa Speaks" stood out as defining points in the album.
Upon its release, the album was both commercially and critically successful, peaking at number three on the US Billboard 200 and making waves within the global music scene. Critics praised the album for its innovative sound fusion of African rhythms and Santana's conventional rock underpinnings.
