The music world is in mourning this week after the death of Carlos Santana’s beloved brother Jorge Santana, a talented guitarist who died at the age of 68.

Carlos confirmed Jorge’s death on Friday morning in a post on his Facebook page. “We take time to celebrate the magnificent spirit of our beloved brother Jorge. He transitioned unto the realm of light that cast no shadow,” Carlos wrote in the post. “The eyes of my heart clearly see him right in between our glorious and magnificent mother Josefina and our father Jose… They are caressing his face and kissing his hands showering him with Light and Love. We love cherish and honor your soul.”

A rep later told TMZ that Jorge had died of natural causes.

Like Carlos, Jorge was known for his guitar skills from an early age, launching his career at just 14 when he joined a band in the 1960s called The Malibus. The group eventually changed their name to Malo and found success with their song “Suavecito” after signing with Warner Bros.

After Malo broke up, Jorge launched a solo career and released two albums called “Jorge Santana” as well as a third titled “It’s All About Love.” He also shared the stage with his younger brother Carlos many times, collaborating with him and their nephew Carlos Hernandez to release the 1994 album “Santana Brothers.”

Aki Starr, a current Malo vocalist, released a statement to Fox News about Jorge’s passing. “I am devastated and at a loss for words finding out about the passing of Jorge Santana,” Starr said. “Jorge was more than a fellow musician to me. In the last 20 years, Jorge became my best friend, my older brother, and someone I loved very much.”

Starr recalled being “star-struck” when he was “able to sing right next to Jorge” as he played the guitar. “Our friendship grew over the years,” he continued. “As time went by, Jorge asked me to be his lead singer for his band, The Jorge Santana Band. I was truly honored and humbled by his request. We toured all over the United States and always had a blast performing together.”

Starr later worked on multiple EPs with Jorge, including “Many Faces,” “Gracias Madrecita,” and the upcoming “Restoration.”

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“Besides these releases, there were so many other songs that Jorge and I worked on and so many projects we had in store,” Starr said. “Touring with Malo and Jorge all these years has been such a pleasure and honor. They are moments I will never forget.  My prayers go out to the entire Santana family during this extremely sad time. I’d like to thank everyone for all the support and prayers. Jorge, mi Hermano (my brother) and best friend, thank you for believing in me and inviting me into your musical world. It’s been such an honor to have experienced that with you. I love you. May your beautiful guitar playing bring joy and love to everyone in Heaven.” Rest in peace, Jorge Santana.

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