**No More Stage for Narco Cheerleaders**
In a unified move, authorities from both the United States and Mexico have taken action against a Mexican band known for their controversial performances. Los Alegres del Barranco, a group that recently lavished praise on “El Mencho”—a notorious drug cartel leader—have faced swift repercussions for their actions. United States officials have revoked the work and tourist visas of all band members following concerts in Jalisco and Michoacán that included tributes to Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” leader of the CJNG cartel, one of the most violent groups in the region.
Former U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Christopher Landau, made a strong statement on social media, emphasizing that while freedom of speech is valued, it does not exempt individuals from facing consequences. “We’re not rolling out the welcome mat for anyone glorifying criminals and terrorists,” Landau remarked, making the U.S. stance abundantly clear.
The response from Mexican authorities has been equally resolute. President Claudia Sheinbaum initiated an investigation into the band’s performances, condemning the glorification of organized crime figures. Furthermore, the mayor of Zapopan has confirmed that a formal complaint has been lodged with the Jalisco State Attorney’s Office against both the venue—University of Guadalajara Auditorium—and the band. Additionally, the City of Zapopan has imposed a fine amounting to 33,942 pesos, equivalent to 300 Unidades de Medida y Actualización (UMA).
This joint effort underscores a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of narco worship. It’s a clear message that glorifying cartel leaders will not be accepted, either by the government or society, on both sides of the border.
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**Secondary Article: Growing Crackdown on Narcoculture in Music**
The recent controversy surrounding Los Alegres del Barranco isn’t an isolated event but part of a larger crackdown on narcoculture within the music industry in Mexico and the U.S. Over the years, several artists have come under fire for their association with narcocorridos—songs that glorify drug lords and their exploits.
The issue isn’t just about freedom of expression but the influence these songs have on young people and communities affected by cartel violence. Governments in both countries are taking steps to curb this influence. Measures include banning artists from performing in certain regions, imposing fines, and revoking visas, as in the recent case of Los Alegres del Barranco.
This movement is backed by public sentiment that strongly opposes the romanticization of criminal figures through music. As authorities adopt stricter measures, they also work with communities to foster cultural expressions that uplift rather than degrade societal values. The fight against narcoculture in music is ongoing and reflects a broader commitment to challenging the normalization of crime in popular culture.