Background on “Los Alegres del Barranco”
“Los Alegres del Barranco” is a popular Mexican folk music group known for their traditional songs and lively performances. The band has gained a significant following due to their energetic concerts and the cultural significance of their music.
Allegations and Legal Proceedings
On Monday, members of “Los Alegres del Barranco” were indicted for alleged crime apologia during a hearing at the Control and Oral Trial Courts in Puente Grande Prison, Jalisco. The charges stem from the group’s display of images of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” the leader of the powerful Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), in several of their concerts.
A legal representative from Zapopan confirmed that the group was indicted for crime apologia, which restricts them from leaving Jalisco except for three previously scheduled performances. The United States has already revoked the work and tourist visas of the group members for allegedly spreading “images that glorified El Mencho.”
President’s Involvement and Public Response
In response to the controversy, Mexico City’s President Claudia Sheinbaum called for an investigation last month. The Fiscalía de Jalisco stated that the group faces a judicial process for allegedly promoting crime through their interpretation of a corrido that glorifies El Mencho.
The Corrido in Question
“El dueño del palenque” is the corrido (a traditional Mexican ballad) that has sparked the controversy. The group has performed this song in various concerts held within Jalisco state.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who are “Los Alegres del Barranco”? They are a well-known Mexican folk music group famous for their lively performances and traditional songs.
- What are the charges against them? The group has been indicted for alleged crime apologia, which involves promoting or glorifying criminal activities.
- Why is this corrido causing controversy? The song, “El dueño del palenque,” allegedly glorifies Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, aka “El Mencho,” the leader of the CJNG, one of Mexico’s most powerful drug cartels.
- What actions have been taken against the group? The United States has revoked the work and tourist visas of the group members, and Mexican authorities have restricted them from leaving Jalisco except for previously scheduled performances.
- What is the significance of this case? This situation highlights the delicate balance between artistic expression and the responsibility of artists to avoid promoting criminal activities or glorifying criminal figures.
