Santana To Stick With Arista Records

Carlos Santana has signed a "long-term, multi-album contract" with Arista Records that will kick in on July 1, Arista announced Thursday (6/29). Santana was one of several high-profile acts that had publicly expressed doubts of re-signing with the label in the wake of Arista founder Clive Davis' controversial ouster.

"I am thrilled to be associated with Carlos Santana," said incoming Arista president and CEO Antonio "L.A." Reid. "He is a unique artist and a legendary talent. I look forward to building upon the extraordinary success of 'Supernatural' and to working closely with him in the future."

Santana's "Supernatural" album has sold more than 20 million copies worldwide, and earned nine Grammy Awards earlier this year. The album is currently in its 52nd week on the Billboard 200 chart in the U.S., where more than 12 million copies of "Supernatural" have sold, according to Arista.

"I am very happy to have come to this new agreement with Arista on this 'Supernatural' odyssey," Santana said in a statement. "I look forward to continuing to make great music that can touch everyone around the world."

Santana is scheduled to open a North American tour on July 20 in West Palm Beach, Fla.

Meanwhile, former Arista head Davis is reportedly close to completing a joint-venture record label deal with German conglomerate Bertelsmann AG, the same company that forced Davis from the helm of Arista. The Los Angeles Times reported this week that the new label may be up and running by September.

No artist has officially jumped from Arista since Davis' departure was announced, and one other act--Carly Simon--has announced intentions to remain with the label.