Carlos Santana Will Appear in Guitar Hero 5

Music games are extremely popular these days, meaning that the companies involved need to do everything they can in order for the public to prefer their own franchises in favor of those of their rivals.

One already historic “feud” is between Activision's Guitar Hero and Harmonix's Rock Band series. As the two companies are preparing to launch brand-new titles in both franchises, Guitar Hero 5 and The Beatles: Rock Band, respectively, yesterday we were witnesses to Harmonix announcing the Rock Band Network, which will let players and even real-life bands bring their tracks into the Harmonix network and sell them to other players.

Now, in an effort to clear the minds of rockers, Activision has revealed that famous guitarist and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Carlos Santana will appear in Guitar Hero 5 as an exclusive in-game artist. A live version of the classic rock anthem with Latino influences, “No One to Depend On” will also be included in the upcoming game.

“We’re thrilled to showcase one of the top guitarists of all time in Guitar Hero 5 and offer fans the opportunity to experience Carlos Santana’s signature sounds and iconic likeness first-hand,” said Tim Riley, vice president of music affairs for Guitar Hero. “His accomplished career and breadth of musical style are a great illustration of the variety of rock experiences we have included in the game and we are excited to announce him as the first of five playable in-game artists.”

The 11-time Grammy Award Winner will appear alongside a massive number of other bands and artists on September 1, when Guitar Hero 5 will be released. This will certainly make the game that much more attractive for players who are saving up their cash for the launch of The Beatles: Rock Band, which will arrive almost right after this game, on September 9.

Look forward to more news about the two franchises in the weeks to come, as more and more juicy details will appear.