With its rousing melodies and moving lyrics, mariachi music, a lively and lyrical reflection of Mexican culture, has enchanted listeners all over the world. Mariachi songs have a special place in many people’s hearts, whether they are played during joyful festivals or private meetings. Whether it’s the thumping beat of the guitars, the alluring sound of the trumpets, or the emotive voices that evoke strong feelings, mariachi music has a timeless brilliance that appeals to listeners of all ages.
The goal of this article is to explore the top mariachi songs that have contributed significantly to this cherished form of music. We won’t focus on any particular musicians or songs, but we will examine the different characteristics that set these works apart and leave a lasting impression on listeners.
Mexican mariachi music has a long, illustrious history that dates back several centuries. Since their humble beginnings in the states of Jalisco and Michoacán, mariachi bands have developed by fusing traditional indigenous music with European influences introduced by Spanish immigration. Through its melodic compositions, mariachi grew to be associated with festivals and the expression of happiness, love, and grief.
The instrumentation of mariachi music is one of its distinguishing qualities. The vihuela, a small, high-pitched guitar-like instrument, the guitarrón, a huge bass guitar, trumpets, violins, and occasionally harps are just a few of the instruments used to create the genre’s distinctive sound. These instruments work together to provide a distinctive mariachi sound that instantly whisks listeners away to Mexico.
Themes of mariachi songs span widely, from love and sadness to patriotism and pride. The lyrics, which are frequently beautiful and highly emotive, tell tales of desire, longing, and the difficulties of interpersonal relationships. Every song has its own distinctive energy and evokes a wide range of feelings that are relatable to people from all walks of life.
We will delve into the background, cultural relevance, and enduring allure of this adored genre as we examine the best mariachi music. Join us as we celebrate the enduring beauty and indisputable influence of the mariachi genre, a treasure that continues to amaze and bring people together all around the world, whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious novice.
14 Best Mariachi Songs – Here are our recommendations!
14: La Llorona
This song’s original author is still unidentified, although mariachi music is accustomed to this. Many of their songs are folk songs, which means that the words and melody may have been created and circulated throughout communities hundreds of years ago.
We learn about a Mexican ghost in this song. Because of this, this song is frequently played during Day of the Dead. It narrates the tale of a mother who has misplaced her kids and is looking for them along a riverbed. The mother is revealed to be a ghost.
13: El Mariachi Loco
This song’s goal is to get people to want to dance, and it succeeds admirably in that endeavour. The title, “The Crazy Mariachi”, gives audiences a clear indication that they are in for a wonderful time. The message should be clear to everyone in the room very quickly because the songs primarily repeat the same phrases about wanting to dance again and over. Every mariachi song doesn’t have to take a serious look at nationalism, mortality, or romance. Sometimes all you want is to have a good time and dance around like a crazy mariachi.
12: ¡Viva México!
This is a Mexican folk song that is patriotic, as the title says. On September 16th, it’s frequently sung as a tribute to El Grito de Independencia. The lyrics, which are in English, exclaim “Long live Mexico” and describe Mexico as a brave nation that never gives up.
The Cry of Dolores, commonly known as El Grito de Independencia, occurred in 1810. On September 16 of that year, a Catholic priest rang the church bell, officially kicking off the Mexican War of Independence. Every year on the anniversary, Mexicans recreate this scene, and they frequently sing this song to accompany the festivities.
11: El Rey
Vicente Fernández received a Latin Grammy Hall of Fame Award for this song. The title literally translates as “The King”. It concerns a man who, while being misunderstood by others around him, nonetheless wishes to think of himself as the “king” of his town.
This depressing song demonstrates the significance of maintaining your self-confidence in the face of adversity and inspires us to have faith in others, even when they appear to be unimportant. This song has been a hit for decades after it was released in the 1970s because of the important ideas it conveys.
10: México Lindo Y Querido
We’re looking at a patriotic mariachi tune, as you can probably infer from the title’s first word. It describes the natural beauty of the land in Mexico and is written in the ranchera style once more. One of the song’s most moving lyrics expresses the singer’s desire for people to believe him when he claims to be simply sleeping in order to bring him back to Mexico if he passes away elsewhere. This song was composed by renowned Mexican composer Chucho Monge and has since been covered by numerous well-known performers.
9: Jarabe Tapatío
Even if you don’t know anything about mariachi, there’s a high chance you’ve heard this song someplace. Although there are lyrics, this dance, often known as the “Mexican Hat Dance”, is occasionally done without them. The main message of the lyrics is to get up and dance to this well-known mariachi song. The official dance of Mexico is now this song because it has been so well-liked for so long.
It is frequently performed at ceremonial occasions, replete with lovely costumes for the dancers. You won’t regret it if you get the chance to watch this one performed.
8: Guadalajara
This song, which was first written in 1937, pays homage to the same-named city. It has been recorded innumerable times, even by artists who are not Mexican. After hearing this Mexican recording, be sure to keep an eye out for Elvis Presley’s and Nat King Cole’s interpretations.
This song is very popular as seen by the large amount of interest in it. It employs a ranchera style, has a particular beat, and keeps to the love, patriotism, and nature themes of the genre. Don’t be alarmed if a quick shout occurs during a ranchera song. This is referred to as a “Grito”, a common word used among rancheras.
7: Las Golondrinas
Contrary to what you might expect when you think of mariachi, this tune is depressing. “Las Golondrinas” is frequently played at funerals in place of the joyous, upbeat folk dance music of Mexico. Although it is a song about loss, it is not meant to be gloomy. Instead, this lovely lyric makes reference to Mexican tradition, particularly to the swallow bird. Those who are hurting or grieving should find solace in this imagery.
The beauty of the Mexican landscape and wildlife are prominent themes in mariachi music. This song honours the natural world while also being for those who are grieving. That gives those who are in mourning hope.
6: La Bamba
“La Bamba” is probably the most recognisable of the tunes on this list, and it’s also the only one from East Mexico rather than West Mexico. It was the number-one single on the US and UK charts in 1987 and is the only song on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time that isn’t sung in English. It is frequently played at weddings and other occasions where dancing is the main event and is another song in the huapango style. It’s the perfect party opener, full of vigour and fun!
5: La Bikina
“La Bikina” was composed in 1964 by Rubén Fuentes, a violinist for the illustrious group Mariachi Vargas De Tecalitlán, along with a number of other Mexican music classics. Since then, it has gained a great deal of notoriety, largely because of Luis Miguel, one of the best-selling Latin musicians of all time. Miguel frequently performs the song with a sizable mariachi ensemble, which intensifies the already passionate tune. Versions of “La Bikina” that have been scaled back can still be effective. Smaller mariachi bands give the song an intimacy that larger groups sometimes lack. Its adaptability is what distinguishes it as a top mariachi song.
4: Mi Padre
A son’s father is honoured in this tuneful song. The son considers what a significant effect his father has had on him, especially during difficult times, in the song’s lyrics. When you want to honour your father, this is a terrific choice to choose for a night out because dads adore it.
You shouldn’t be surprised if your parents cry a few happy tears when they hear this song, but the upbeat energy of the music prevents things from becoming overly emotional.
3: El Son de la Negra
This folk song, also referred to as “Le Negra”, is undoubtedly one of the most well-known mariachi melodies. It was immortalised by the composer Blas Gilando in 1940, and since then, it has come to represent Mexican identity and culture. The song “La Negra” is so well-known that it is frequently referred to as Mexico’s second national anthem. The son jalisciense music is typically accompanied by the zapateado dance, which is an exuberant, vivacious form. Zapateado dancers move their feet in time to the music, tapping their heels against the floor in time with the group (kind of like tap dancing). While the song’s exuberance has made it ageless, the lyrics do have a mournful undertone (a worker waits for his girlfriend to return).
2: Volver Volver
‘Volver Volver’ is a ranchera-style tune that should not be mistaken with the tango of the same name. It is driven by a crooning vocal melody and melodic trumpets. It is a traditional love song about yearning for a past love and the impossibility of going back in time. “Volver Volver,” made popular by Vicente Fernández, popularly known as “The King of Ranchera Music”, has all the qualities that define the best ranchera songs: intensely moving refrains, poignant verses, and that rawness that one finds in the best folk music.
1: Malagueña Salerosa
Cinephiles don’t need to look any further. Quentin Tarantino utilised the song “Malagueña Salerosa”, a huapango type song reminiscent of son jalisciense compositions with their alternating rhythms and zapateado dancers, in his movie Kill Bill: Vol. 2. Chingon, a band founded by filmmaker Robert Rodriguez, provided the music. Tarantino has a reputation for having good taste in music. This is by no means an exception. Over 200 artists have also covered the song, from the American heavy metal band Avenged Sevenfold to possibly the most well-known mariachi band, Mariachi Vargas De Tecalitlán. The 1940s-era song “Malagueña Salerosa” is still regarded as a masterpiece of mariachi music today.
14 Best Mariachi Songs – Closing remarks and thoughts
In conclusion, the world of mariachi music is a magical place brimming with enduring melodies, alluring rhythms, and powerful feelings. We have seen how the power of this music genre can cross boundaries, linguistic barriers, and generational divides, making a lasting impression on listeners’ hearts and souls during our investigation of the best mariachi songs.
The appeal of mariachi music resides not only in its melodic arrangements but also in its capacity to arouse a variety of emotions. Mariachi melodies have the unique ability to capture the essence of life’s most deep moments, from the exuberant celebrations that spark the spirit of fiestas to the melancholy serenades that resonate with the depths of the human experience.
The vihuela, guitarrón, trumpet, violin, and harp musical skill on display adds to the attraction of mariachi music. These instruments blend harmoniously to provide a rich tapestry of sound that transports listeners to the heart of Mexico and invites them to engage with the vibrant culture that gave rise to this genre.
Additionally, the beautiful lyrics that go along with these songs offer glimpses into the essence of mariachi music. Each song captures the universal human experience while evoking empathy and compassion via its narratives of love, sorrow, resiliency, and hope.
We are reminded of the ongoing legacy and cultural relevance of this beloved genre as we consider the greatest mariachi tunes. Mariachi music is still going strong, enticing new listeners and perpetuating a beautiful tradition that unites generations. Its capacity to cross barriers and bring people together through shared emotions is evidence of its enduring popularity.
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