In late July, Grammy Award-winning American guitarist Carlos Santana headlined at Atlantic City, New Jersey. A video of the guitarist’s anti-LGBTQ+ statements recently went viral on social media. Carlos Santana is shown pausing during his performance and addressing the audience, saying, “When God made me and you, before we came out of the womb, you know who you are and what you are.” Then he noted that there are only two genders in the world: men and women. However, as soon as the snippet became viral, people chastised him for his anti-trans and anti-LGBTQ+ stances. Unfortunately for Santana, while his statements were applauded by his live crowd, netizens did not appear to agree with him.

In fact, many people came forward to accuse him of being transphobic and anti-LGBTQ+. Carlos Santana provided a clarification via Billboard following the online outrage. He did not retract his words in his statement to the media outlet. Rather, he added that he respects everyone’s viewpoints and that it is his “personal goal” that he seeks “to achieve every day.” He also stated that he accepted and honored people’s goals and beliefs, regardless of whether they were LGBTQ or not. He went on to say that this is “a planet of free will” and that the goal is for everyone to be “happy and fun” and to believe anything they want and follow it in their heart without worry.

Legendary Guitarist Carlos Santana Apologizes After Anti-Trans Rant Sparks Backlash Online

Carlos Santana has apologised for making transphobic, “insensitive comments” onstage during a recent performance. Santana says onstage in a video posted to YouTube on August 19: “When God made you and me before we came out of the womb, you knew who you are and what you are… Later on, as you grow out of it, you see things and begin to believe that you could be something that sounds good, but you know it’s not right.” Continuing, Santana made derogatory remarks about gender identification. “Because a man is a man, and a woman is a woman,” he said. “If you want to go into the closet and do whatever you want, it’s your prerogative.” That was fine with me.” A few moments later, he referred to comedian Dave Chappelle, who was criticized for making anti-trans slurs during his stand-up performances in the past. One example is Dave’s identity himself as “Team TERF” or “Team Trans Exclusionary Radical Feminist” in his 2021 Netflix special The Closer.

Unfortunately for Santana, while his statements were applauded by his live crowd, netizens did not appear to agree with him. In fact, many people came forward to accuse him of being transphobic and anti-LGBTQ+. After the video went viral, the 76-year-old guitarist apologised on his own Facebook page on Thursday. “I apologise for my insensitive remarks,” he began. Those statements do not reflect my desire to honor and respect everyone’s beliefs and ideals.” I recognize that what I said damaged individuals. I recognise that what I said damaged individuals, which was not my intention. I truly apologise to the transgender community and anyone else I may have upset.” “I want to honor and respect all people’s ideals and beliefs, LGBTQ or not.” “This is the planet of free will, and we are all recipients of this gift,” he continued in his Facebook post. “It takes courage to shine in your own light, to be true, genuine, and authentic.” As we mature, we learn to beam our lights with love and praise. Have a beautiful life. Peace.”

• Also Read: Britney Spears’ Close Bond with Criminal Housekeeper Sparks Controversy Amid Sam Asghari Divorce