Marcus Malone facts for kids

Marcus "The Magnificent" Malone (born July 29, 1944 – died October 12, 2021) was an American musician. He played percussion, which means he played instruments like drums and congas. Marcus was one of the first members of the famous Latin rock band Santana.

Marcus Malone's Early Life and Music Career

Marcus Malone was born in Memphis, Tennessee. In 1966, he helped start a band in San Francisco called the Santana Blues Band. This band later became known simply as Santana. Marcus played Latin percussion instruments, which gave the band a special sound.

The band's guitarist, Carlos Santana, and bassist, David Brown, said that Marcus helped the band create its unique musical style. He inspired them to try new things with their music, like on their song "Jingo".

Santana's Rise to Fame

Santana became very famous after they were chosen to play at the Woodstock Music Festival in August 1969. This was a huge music event. Around the same time, the band was also working on their first album, called Santana.

Marcus Malone helped write the song "Soul Sacrifice". This song was on their first album and was also performed by the band at Woodstock. However, Marcus was not able to play with the band at Woodstock because he was dealing with personal challenges at the time.

A Reunion with Santana

After many years away from the music scene, Marcus Malone was found in Oakland in December 2013. A TV reporter named Stanley Roberts accidentally discovered him.

After this discovery, Marcus Malone and Carlos Santana had a very special reunion. They were both very happy to see each other again. There was even talk that Marcus might play percussion on Santana's new album, Santana IV. They did practice together, but Marcus did not end up playing on the album. Carlos Santana explained that Marcus had not played music for many years and didn't have the strength or energy needed for recording.

Later Life and Passing

On June 18, 2016, Marcus Malone was seriously hurt in an accident in Oakland. A tire came off a car and hit him, causing him to fall. He was taken to Oakland's Highland Hospital for treatment. His family and friends started a special online fundraiser to help with his medical costs. Marcus was later moved to a nursing facility to continue his recovery.

Marcus Malone passed away on October 12, 2021, when he was 77 years old.

Albums with Santana

• Live at the Fillmore 1968 (1997)
• The Very Best of Santana – Live in 1968 (2007)

Images for kids

• 

  A friendly robot.

See also

In Spanish: Marcus Malone para niños