During a concert at the University of Guadalajara on March 30, 2025, the band Los Alegres del Barranco paid tribute to Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as 'El Mencho', the leader of the Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG). This event has sparked significant controversy, drawing criticism from local officials and highlighting the intersection of music and organized crime in Mexico.
Los Alegres del Barranco, a regional Mexican music group, began their career in 2005, initially performing at family gatherings and local events. Hailing from Sinaloa, the band is known for their narcocorridos, a genre that narrates the lives of drug traffickers and their exploits. The group consists of Armando Moreno Álvarez (lead vocals), José Pavel Moreno (accordion and backing vocals), José Carlos Moreno (bass), and Cristóbal Reyes (drums). Their name is derived from their hometown, San José del Barranco, in Badiraguato, Sinaloa, as noted by Apple Music.
As the concert unfolded, images of 'El Mencho' and the band's signature roosters were displayed prominently on screens while they performed "El Dueño del Palenque", a song that glorifies the CJNG leader. This homage has not only gone viral on social media but also raised concerns about the normalization of violence in public spaces. The tribute included lyrics that reflect the group's allegiance to the cartel, making it clear that they have songs dedicated to various notorious figures, including Joaquín 'El Chapo' Guzmán and the CJNG itself.
In response to the tribute, Jalisco's Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro expressed his disapproval, stating that such displays should not occur in any part of the state. He emphasized the need to stop normalizing violence and called for collective efforts to combat it. On social media, he wrote, "What was seen at the concert this weekend goes in the opposite direction. We all have to do our part to stop normalizing violence." He further reminded the public of recent tragedies linked to organized crime, urging unity in the face of such challenges.
Los Alegres del Barranco boasts a robust following, with nearly 700,000 followers on Instagram and over 4.1 million monthly listeners on Spotify. Their music often glorifies the lives of drug lords and includes tracks explicitly dedicated to 'El Mencho', such as "Soy Mencho", which narrates his rise within the cartel, and "El del Palenque", which was performed during the tribute.
The lyrics of "El del Palenque" articulate the group's admiration for 'El Mencho', referencing his dominance in the criminal underworld. The song includes lines that celebrate his power and influence, painting him as a formidable figure in the landscape of organized crime. This has led to a mixed reception from the public, with some fans celebrating the tribute while others condemn it as a dangerous glorification of criminality.
This incident is not isolated; it reflects a broader trend in Mexican pop culture where musicians often intertwine their art with the narratives of drug cartels. Just earlier this month, on March 1, 2025, during a concert at the Plaza de Toros Alberto Balderas, popular artist Natanael Cano also made headlines by mentioning both 'El Mencho' and 'El Chapo', further blurring the lines between entertainment and the realities of drug trafficking.
Los Alegres del Barranco’s music serves as a cultural commentary on the complex relationship between society and organized crime. Their songs resonate with many who see them as a reflection of their realities, while others view them as a harmful influence that perpetuates violence and crime.
In a region where drug cartels exert significant control, the popularity of narcocorridos raises questions about the impact of such music on public perception and behavior. The tribute to 'El Mencho' has ignited discussions about the responsibilities of artists in shaping narratives around crime and violence.
As the debate continues, it is clear that Los Alegres del Barranco have tapped into a controversial yet lucrative niche within the music industry. Their ability to attract large audiences while simultaneously courting criticism highlights the complexities of cultural expression in a society grappling with the realities of drug-related violence.
The recent events surrounding the tribute to 'El Mencho' at the University of Guadalajara serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle between cultural celebration and the harsh realities of organized crime in Mexico. While some celebrate the music as part of their heritage, others caution against its potential to glorify a lifestyle fraught with danger and moral ambiguity.
Moving forward, it remains to be seen how artists like Los Alegres del Barranco will navigate the fine line between artistic expression and social responsibility. The conversation surrounding their music and its implications for society is likely to continue, as both fans and critics weigh in on the impact of narcocorridos in contemporary Mexican culture.
