SANTOS: Skin to Skin

by Warren Buchholz --



On a cold Thursday I spent my evening nestled in the Murray Theater at Ruth Eckerd Hall to watch the film screening of Santos: Skin on Skin, a music documentary that gives us a glimpse into the life of John Santos, a seven-time Grammy nominated musician, educator, and activist.

The film begins with an explosion of music and colorful latin-themed motion graphics that set the tone. Director Kathryn Golden quickly establishes a sense of wonderment when we meet John Santos: an American born percussionist with latin roots. He’s more than just a percussionist as he lives and breathes the rhythms of the congas.

Paired with clips of his music and the artistry that Golden and Ashley James (cinematographer) create, this documentary serves as an exploration into why afro-latin music is important to our history as humans. Santos tells us that music not only documents but also educates our history. Without the congas, music as we know it would not exist. The roots of the congas date back to slavery where they travelled across the globe. Santos' afro-latin influences direct back to his grandparents–especially his grandfather who inspired Santos to explore music as a career.

Each section of the documentary transitions with a live performance piece from many of Santos’ ensembles that includes the songs "La Rumba Me Lleva" and "The Youth." These performances made me feel like I was in the room with him, and the energy burst through the theatre during each song. The music became the highlight for the audience as they danced in their seats.

Golden skillfully juxtaposes Santos’ activism (he fought the Grammy Academy for two years to reinstate 31 cut categories and won the fight) and grief that comes when losing a child. Santos uses the power of music to work through his grief, which leads to the creation of many beautiful songs. Playing and performing is a cathartic outlet for him, and it makes his work that much stronger.

The finale of the documentary looks toward the future with Santos continuing his journey by educating and presenting the congas as heartbeats you can feel within your body and your soul. This film is inspirational in its approach, and it makes me want to start learning the congas.

A Q&A session followed the film where Kathryn and Ashley stepped onto the stage. Several questions the audience asked:

• “Where can we watch it at home?” (Kathryn and Ashley are working on streaming rights)
• “What other films have you produced together?” (Dancing With Saigon, Bomba – Dancing the Drum are a couple of examples)
• “What advice would you give filmmakers?” (Record oral histories. Ashley speaks he forgot his mother’s voice, so he recorded the oral history of his father, which inspired him to create more films)
• “What stood out to the filmmakers when spending so much time with John?” (Santos explaining rhythm and the vibration in the world. This changed Kathryn’s perspective on percussion and the rhythms of life)