Woodstock, already destined to become a legendary event, was teeming with a sea of humanity that had swelled far beyond anyone’s expectations. An anticipated audience of 50,000 had surged to an estimated 400,000, transforming the quiet town of Bethel, New York, into a sprawling, makeshift metropolis. Hordes of young people from across the nation descended upon Max Yasgur’s dairy farm, eagerly awaiting a lineup of musical luminaries.

The crush of the crowd and the flood of unanticipated attendees had turned the logistical planning on its head. There were not enough food, water, or sanitation facilities to accommodate the swelling masses. People waited for hours, even days, in lines that seemed to stretch to the horizon. The elements were unforgiving, with bouts of rain turning the grounds into a mud-covered expanse. Yet, despite these challenges, the atmosphere was one of cooperation, shared excitement, and camaraderie.

Amidst this backdrop of anticipation and disorder, Santana, a relatively unknown band from San Francisco, found themselves thrust into the spotlight earlier than expected. They were scheduled to play later in the day, but with the concert running behind schedule and many artists delayed, Santana was suddenly called to perform.

The band’s eponymous leader, Carlos Santana, had taken mescaline earlier, expecting to have more time before going onstage. Mescaline, a naturally occurring psychedelic substance found in certain cacti, can induce powerful, mind-altering experiences. As Santana recalled in interviews, he was peaking on the effects of the drug when he was told it was time to perform.

The young guitarist faced the enormous audience with his guitar, feeling as though it was a slithering electric snake in his hands. He struggled to stay focused on playing, feeling the full weight of the moment and the altered state he was in. Santana said that during the performance, he was praying and trying to hold onto his guitar for dear life.

Despite the unexpected timing, the altered state of mind, and the sheer magnitude of the audience, Santana delivered a legendary performance. The band’s music resonated with the audience’s mood, and their Latin rock fusion created a magical atmosphere that electrified the waiting crowd. Their now-iconic rendition of “Soul Sacrifice,” highlighted by Carlos Santana’s fiery guitar playing and Michael Shrieve’s remarkable drum solo, became one of the most memorable moments of the festival.

As the sun set on that historic day, the massive audience, who had waited so patiently through delays and challenges, witnessed a performance that would go down in history. Santana’s set at Woodstock was not just a triumph for the band but a testament to the unifying power of music and the enduring spirit of a generation.