ROCK MOMENT – Santana ‘Winning’

‘Winning’ by Santana is a powerful and uplifting track released in 1981 on the album Zebop!. At a time when the band was transitioning away from its early Latin rock roots into a more mainstream rock and pop-oriented sound, ‘Winning’ became one of the defining songs of this era and a key moment in their commercial resurgence.

The song was written by Russ Ballard, a British songwriter known for crafting hits for various rock artists. Originally recorded by Ballard himself, Santana’s version brought a new level of emotional intensity and musical polish. Driven by soaring vocals from Alex Ligertwood and the unmistakable, expressive guitar work of Carlos Santana, the track struck a chord with audiences thanks to its themes of perseverance and triumph.

‘Winning’ stood out for its blend of arena rock energy and Santana’s signature melodic guitar style. While it didn’t lean as heavily on Latin rhythms as the band’s earlier hits like ‘Oye Como Va,’ it still retained a sense of musical identity through Santana’s phrasing and tone. The production reflected the early 1980s sound, with a clean, radio-friendly mix that helped the song gain significant airplay.

Upon its release, ‘Winning’ climbed the charts and became a staple on rock radio, helping Zebop! achieve strong commercial success. The song resonated widely, often being associated with sports, motivation, and personal achievement due to its anthemic chorus and inspiring message.

Over the years, ‘Winning’ has remained a beloved part of Santana’s catalog and continues to be featured in live performances. It represents a period of reinvention for the band—demonstrating their ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes while still delivering emotionally powerful and memorable music.