Back in 1996, it would have been hard to predict a service like Spotify. But now, nearly 30 years later, Sublime’s hit “Santeria” has made a big splash on the platform. This week, the song joined the Billions Club, hitting over one billion streams on Spotify. It’s the first Sublime track to reach this milestone.
“Santeria” was a major hit in the mid-90s, peaking at No. 3 on alternative radio and becoming a staple on MTV. The song comes from Sublime’s self-titled album, released after frontman Bradley Nowell’s tragic death. The album also featured hits like “What I Got,” “Wrong Way,” and “Doin’ Time,” which was later covered by Lana Del Rey. Rolling Stone praised the band for their unique sound, blending funk beats, Jamaican rhythms, and catchy choruses.
In the streaming age, “Santeria” remains one of Sublime’s most popular songs, thanks in part to its presence in video games like Guitar Hero World Tour and Rock Band 3. The song was built on the chords and guitar solo from “Lincoln Highway Dub,” a track from their previous album, 1994’s Robbin’ the Hood.
Sublime’s achievement comes just months after the release of their new single “Ensenada,” which topped the Billboard Alternative Airplay chart. This marks the band’s first No. 1 since “What I Got” in 1996. “Ensenada” features Jakob Nowell, Bradley’s son, who has taken over lead vocals and guitar, joining founding members Eric Wilson and Bud Gaugh. Check out Sublime’s music on vinyl or CD now!
