Put Your Lights On
Carlos Santana feat. Eric Clapton Lyrics

The lyrics of Carlos Santana’s song, “Put Your Lights On”, address the duality of human nature where each one of us has a dark side and a light side co-existing within us. In the first verse, the singer invites sinners and lovers to put their lights on, while at the same time calling on killers to do the same. The second verse continues in the same vein, urging children to leave their lights on to shine brightly. The song introduces a monster whispering in his ear representing his dark side, while an angel with a hand on his head represents his light side, reassuring him that there is nothing to fear. Here, the singer points out that even though there is darkness in his soul, he has a purpose to serve, and he implores God not to let him lose his nerve as he strives to do his duty.

The lines, “La ilaha illallah, We all shine like stars” draw from the Islamic affirmation of faith, and they offer hope and reassurance that we all have a responsibility to shine brightly, regardless of our fears, doubts, or flaws. By urging the listeners to put their lights on, the singer is calling on them to let their good deeds and morality shine through, overcoming their dark sides.

Overall, “Put Your Lights On” invites introspection and self-reflection, urging listeners to identify their light and dark sides, and to embrace their lightness even as they acknowledge their inner darkness. It is a potent reminder that we all have a purpose to serve and we should allow our light to shine, irrespective of our flaws and imperfections.