Tragic Death of a Music Star
In a shocking turn of events, Ernesto Barajas, a well-known musician celebrated for his songs praising drug cartels, was killed on Tuesday night in a parking lot in Zapopan, Jalisco. The police confirmed the musician’s death late Tuesday.
Barajas was a member of Enigma Norteno, a group that boasts four million monthly listeners on Spotify. His assassination highlights a disturbing trend, as several artists within the controversial ‘narco-corrido’ genre—music that glorifies the activities of drug cartels—have been targeted in recent months. Notably, in May, five members of the band Fugitivo were murdered by suspected drug traffickers in Tamaulipas and their bodies discovered days later.
Details of the Shooting
According to authorities, two gunmen approached Barajas on a motorcycle before opening fire. During the incident, another man was killed, and a woman sustained a leg injury.
Controversial Themes in Music
Enigma Norteno is known for songs that reference infamous drug figures, including a track dedicated to Nemesio Rubén ‘El Mencho’ Oseguera Cervantes, the head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The U.S. government has announced a $15 million reward for information leading to his capture. Another controversial song, ‘Los Chapitos,’ refers to the children of Joaquin ‘El Chapo’ Guzman, who is currently serving a life sentence in the U.S.
Criminal organizations often fund musicians to create songs that celebrate their exploits. This has led to dangerous situations for artists who become embroiled in turf wars. Reports suggest that Barajas had previously received threats from the CJNG.
Response to Narco-Corridos
In response to the violence associated with this genre, several regions in Mexico have outlawed ‘narco-corridos.’ Recently, tensions escalated when a riot broke out during a concert after a singer refused to perform his popular cartel-themed songs.
Visa Revocations and Controversies
Additionally, the Trump administration has taken action against various artists linked to these themes. For instance, in May, the well-known band Grupo Firme was forced to cancel a California concert due to visa suspensions, stemming from their attempts to distance themselves from cartel narratives. In April, Alegres de Barranco had their visas revoked after a concert controversy involving an image of ‘El Mencho.’ In a bid for redemption, the band released an anti-narco song in June.
Earlier this month, the administration also sanctioned Mexican artist Ricardo Hernández, known as ‘El Makabelico,’ for alleged money laundering for a drug cartel.
