Cindy

Cindy Blackman Santana, born on November 7 1959 in Yellow Springs, Ohio, is an acclaimed American drummer renowned for her dynamic work in jazz, rock and fusion; she began playing drums at age 10, studied under renowned teachers, and earned a bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst before moving to New York City where she quickly became a sought‑after session and touring musician, notably joining the legendary jazz‑fusion group The Tony Williams Lifetime and later serving as the long‑time drummer for Lenny Kravitz’s band from 1995 onward, while also releasing a series of critically praised solo jazz albums such as “Works on Paper” (2006) and “Someday...” (2009); in 2007 she married guitarist Carlos Santana, adopting the Santana name, and she continues to perform, record, and teach, recognized for her powerful technique, compositional skill, and contributions to expanding the visibility of women in percussion.