What is oye como va?

"Oye Cómo Va" is a Latin jazz and rock song written by the influential musician Tito Puente in 1963. The song gained widespread popularity when it was covered by Santana on their 1970 album "Abraxas."

The tune is characterized by its catchy, danceable rhythm and memorable melody. Tito Puente's original version is a classic example of mambo music, with a strong emphasis on brass and percussion, while Santana's cover is a fusion of Latin music with rock elements, showcasing Carlos Santana's distinctive electric guitar work. The lyrics are simple, with the title translating to "Hey, How's It Going?" in English, and mainly serve as a vehicle for the instrumentation.

Santana’s version helped to popularize Latin rock music and introduced many listeners to the sounds of Latin American music genres. The song remains a staple in both Tito Puente's and Santana's musical legacies and is often performed by other artists in various styles, reflecting its enduring influence on music across different cultures and generations.