Corridos are a traditional form of Mexican music that narrate stories—often true, sometimes embellished—celebrating the deeds of folk heroes, telling of important events, and giving perspective to societal issues. These ballads string together the historical, the political, and the dramatic, presenting tales of love, war, revolution, and everyday life with a poetic edge and usually set to a polka, waltz, or mazurka rhythm. With origins tracing back to the 1800s, corridos have evolved over time and continue to be an influential and beloved genre in the Latin music world. Whether you are an aficionado of the old classics or are dipping your toes into the vibrant pool of modern takes on this traditional form, you’ll find corridos that resonate. Let’s explore ten of the most notable corridos songs.
#10. “El Carretonero” – Los Rieleros Del Norte
This song is a poignant depiction of the life of a carretonero, or cart driver. “El Carretonero” touches upon themes of hard work and the struggles of the working class, transporting listeners to the dusty roads of rural Mexico. Los Rieleros Del Norte are known for their authentic and soulful representation of traditional Mexican music, and through “El Carretonero,” they don’t disappoint. This song is not just a story, but an anthem for the countless unsung heroes of the working world.
#9. “El Gallo de Sinaloa” – Chalino Sanchez
Hailed as one of the fathers of the modern corrido, Chalino Sanchez brought to life the tales of drug traffickers, lawmen, and revolutionaries through his rugged voice and direct songwriting. “El Gallo de Sinaloa” is a typical narrative of the bravado and bold exploits of its titular character. Sanchez’s music is essential for understanding how the modern narcocorrido, a subgenre focusing on the lives of drug traffickers, emerged and grew in popularity.
#8. “Cruz de Madera” – Michael Salgado
In “Cruz de Madera,” Michael Salgado presents a maudlin narrative that reflects on mortality and the fleeting nature of life. The wooden cross, or ‘cruz de madera’, symbolizes a simple but dignified remembrance for those who have passed on. Salgado’s interpretation of the song is emotionally charged and has helped cement it as a staple at memorials and funerals, reverberating with the lived experiences of many.
#7. “Contrabando y Traición” – Los Tigres del Norte
Perhaps one of the most iconic corridos bands, Los Tigres del Norte shot to fame with their song “Contrabando y Traición.” The track tells a dramatic tale of drug smuggling, betrayal, and murder. It’s a gripping narrative that set the bar high for storytelling in music and gave an explosive start to Los Tigres del Norte’s storied career. The song’s popularity also played a pivotal role in legitimizing narcocorridos in the music industry and culture.
#6. “La Cama de Piedra” – Cuco Sánchez
Penned by Cuco Sánchez himself, “La Cama de Piedra” is a classic corrido that has been covered by countless artists since its inception. The song’s mournful lyrics speak of unrequited love and the pain of abandonment, with ‘the bed of stone’ symbolising a grave or eternal rest place for the grieving lover. Its melody is both haunting and touching, showcasing the corrido’s ability to delve deep into the human heart and its darkest recesses.
#5. “La Rama del Mezquite” – Ramón Ayala
Ramón Ayala, the “King of the Accordion,” brings to life the rich imagery of rural Mexico with “La Rama del Mezquite.” Ayala paints a picture of festivities and dance under a Mezquite tree—a central gathering place in many Mexican villages. His songs are lively, exhibiting the close relationship between the people and their land. “La Rama del Mezquite” is a vivid and vibrant homage to that connection and to the tradition of gathering and celebrating together.
#4. “El Hijo Desobediente” – Antonio Aguilar
Antonio Aguilar was not just a singer but also an actor and cultural icon. “El Hijo Desobediente,” or “The Disobedient Son,” is a cautionary tale warning of the perils of waywardness and disobedience to parents. Aguilar’s rendition resonates with the moralistic stories often found in traditional corridos, delivering them with his rich, commanding vocals. The song is an enduring reminder of the genre’s role in imparting life lessons and moral instructions to its listeners.
#3. “El Rey” – Vicente Fernández
Vicente Fernández is a legend in the ranchera and corrido music scenes. “El Rey” might not follow the conventional corrido narrative, but its spirit captures the pride and defiance often found in these songs. The lyrics are a bold declaration of self-worth and resilience in the face of adversity. While not written by Fernández himself (it was penned by José Alfredo Jiménez), his interpretation has become a definitive rendition, imbued with his dynamic and powerful vocal presence. This song is a quintessential example of how corrido music embodies and projects the Mexican spirit.
#2. “Caminos De Guanajuato” – José Alfredo Jiménez
No list of corridos would be complete without mentioning José Alfredo Jiménez, one of Mexico’s most prolific and influential songwriters. “Caminos De Guanajuato” is a heartfelt homage to the roads of Jiménez’s home state, and by extension, to the beauty of Mexico. The song’s passionate lyrics and stirring melody embody the traversed paths of the many who find solace and meaning in the warmth of their homeland. Covered by many artists over the years, Jiménez’s original composition remains unmatched in its sincerity and emotional depth.
#1. “Corrido de Joaquín Murrieta” – Los Alegres de Terán
At the top of our list is a song dedicated to the larger-than-life figure, Joaquín Murrieta, who came to symbolize defiance against oppression in California during the Gold Rush era. Los Alegres de Terán’s rendition of his tale, “Corrido de Joaquín Murrieta,” encapsulates the themes of resistance and justice that are recurrent in corrido tradition. It’s a powerful ballad that tells the story of the man who many consider to be the original “Robin Hood” of the West, upholding the corrido’s role as a vehicle for conveying the struggles and valor of the common people.
In exploring the depths and diversity of corridos, we get more than just music; we get narratives that have defined Mexican culture and identity through the years. These top ten corrido songs are windows into the soul of a people, offering us rhythm, poetry, and stories that have been sung and celebrated for generations. Whether recounting tales of everyday heroes or legends of the past, corridos continue to be a stirring testament to the power of musical storytelling.