Why much of Mexico is banning pop ballads about drug traffickers

In Mexico, narcocorridos—songs glamorizing the lives and crimes of drug cartels—are thriving despite increasing bans from various states aimed at reducing perceived promotion of violence. With a strong youth following, the genre has sparked debates surrounding artistic freedom and the impact of music on societal issues. Proposed legislation by Mexico City's mayor seeks to further restrict these songs at government events. Supporters argue that addressing security issues rather than censoring music would be more beneficial, emphasizing the genre's role as a historical and cultural narrative amid present-day violence.

"The genre of narcocorridos is increasingly under attack, with bans on performance emerging across Mexico—contextualizing the challenges of artistic expression in a country plagued by drug violence."

"Amaya, the organizer of Guitarrazos, argues that the focus should be on improving security rather than prosecuting musicians, suggesting that changing reality will influence music more effectively."

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