Los Tucanes de Tijuana, one of Mexico’s most famous regional Mexican bands, recently made headlines after being fined by local authorities in Chihuahua for performing songs that glorify the activities of drug cartels. The band, which is known for its narcocorridos—songs that celebrate the lives of criminals, particularly drug lords—was performing a concert at the Feria de Chihuahua when a significant portion of their setlist contained songs that were seen as promoting violence and crime.
The Roots of Narcocorridos
Narcocorridos are a subgenre of traditional Mexican folk music that emerged in the 1970s and 1980s. These songs often depict the lives of drug traffickers, the violence associated with the drug trade, and the illegal activities of cartels. The genre has been a point of contention in Mexico for decades, with some seeing it as a reflection of the harsh realities of life in regions controlled by cartels, while others view it as promoting a dangerous lifestyle that glamorizes criminal behavior.
Los Tucanes de Tijuana have long been associated with narcocorridos, with some of their most popular songs celebrating drug lords and their exploits. Although their music has a massive following, especially among fans in border towns and U.S.-Mexico border communities, it has faced criticism for allegedly encouraging violence.
The Fine and Its Implications
In early June 2025, local authorities in Chihuahua issued a fine of approximately $36,000 to Los Tucanes de Tijuana after they performed several narcocorridos at the Feria de Chihuahua. City officials cited the band’s promotion of criminal activity as the main reason for the fine, with some arguing that the performance violated public decency laws.
Pedro Oliva, a municipal council member, was quoted in the media saying, “These songs promote an image of crime, and we cannot allow that message to spread in our communities.” He further explained that the fine was a measure to prevent further performances of narcocorridos, which he argued could encourage young people to idolize drug lords.
Public Opinion: Divided Views on Narcocorridos
The fine has sparked a heated debate among music fans, critics, and local government officials. Supporters of Los Tucanes de Tijuana argue that the band is simply telling the stories of people living in cartel-controlled regions, reflecting the harsh realities that many face. They contend that the music should be viewed as an art form, one that highlights the difficult lives of those caught in the drug trade.
However, critics of the band argue that narcocorridos are not just storytelling but a form of endorsement for criminal activity. These critics assert that the songs glamorize drug cartels and violence, contributing to the normalization of criminal behavior, especially among young listeners.
The Future of Narcocorridos in Mexican Music
The controversy surrounding Los Tucanes de Tijuana’s performance is part of a broader conversation in Mexico about the role of music in shaping public perception. While narcocorridos have a strong following, particularly in regions where drug cartels have a significant influence, their future may be influenced by growing calls for greater responsibility in the music industry. As the Mexican government continues to battle organized crime, there may be more pressure to regulate or censor content that appears to glorify the criminal world.
It remains to be seen how this legal action will affect the band’s career. Fans of Los Tucanes de Tijuana argue that the government is infringing on their artistic freedom, while others believe the fine is necessary to protect communities from the negative influence of narcocorridos. Regardless of where one stands on the issue, the debate surrounding the fine highlights the power of music in shaping culture and the responsibility artists have in the messages they send.
