In an effort to change the narrative surrounding Mexico’s traditional musical genre, corridos, Captain Eduardo Barrón has taken up music as a way to promote positivity and patriotism. Unlike the popular narco corridos that have sparked controversy by glorifying cartel violence, Barrón’s music focuses on honoring the army’s virtues, celebrating proud parents, and remembering fallen soldiers.
Barrón, who performs under the name “Eddy Barrón,” began releasing music videos and songs on Spotify last year in coordination with the Mexican military. His lyrics diverge sharply from those found in narco corridos, which have been criticized for romanticizing cartel violence and often depict cartel bosses as rebels going against the system.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has also proposed promoting corridos that avoid “glorifying violence, drugs, and discrimination against women.” A government-sponsored Mexican music competition was even announced to showcase music that meets these criteria. However, some have expressed skepticism about official attempts to promote family-friendly narratives in a subculture long defined by resistance and harsh realities.
Despite the controversy surrounding narco corridos, Barrón believes that continuing to sing positive messages can help shift the conversation and reclaim the genre from negative stereotypes. He plans to release new songs in the coming months with the hope of promoting patriotism and positivity through music.
This effort is part of a wider government push to promote alternative narratives in Mexican music. As one sociologist noted, corridos have long been used to pass on oral histories and share stories of social issues. However, the genre has evolved over generations, from singing about smuggling tequila during the Prohibition era to grappling with cartel violence.
In recent years, the controversy surrounding narco corridos has intensified, with Mexican states implementing performance bans and prominent artists receiving death threats. The face of top cartel boss Nemesio Rubén “El Mencho” Oseguera was even projected onto a large screen behind a band at a music festival in Jalisco, sparking widespread criticism.
The incident marked a hardening in tone by President Sheinbaum, who called for an investigation into the concert and stated that violence or criminal groups cannot be justified. Barrón’s efforts to promote positive messages through music may help shift the conversation and reclaim the genre from negative stereotypes. By continuing to sing cloaked in camouflage, he hopes to take a different path and shift the focus away from cartel violence.
Source: AP
