Peso Pluma’s ‘Génesis’: Revolutionizing Corridos and Redefining Mexican Music
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In a whirlwind year, Peso Pluma has skyrocketed from obscurity to become the second most-streamed Latin artist on Spotify, trailing only the legendary Bad Bunny. With his unique blend of trap-infused corridos, he has propelled regional Mexican music into the global spotlight. Now, with his latest album, ‘Génesis,’ Peso Pluma channels his rebellious swagger into a feisty collection of songs that push corridos into the mainstream and into the future.
Alongside a wave of Gen-Z acts such as Natanael Cano, Junior H, and Gabito Ballesteros, who are reshaping traditional Mexican genres, Peso Pluma transforms the music of yore into infectious party anthems, heartfelt love songs, and introspective reflections on life. ‘Génesis’ feels like his first true outing as a música Mexicana maverick, solidifying his position as Mexico’s biggest pop star.
Through his music, Peso Pluma has popularized and embodied the term bélico, Mexican slang for “badass.” He fully embraces this attitude on the fiery track “Zapata,” paying homage to the strength he draws from Mexican revolutionary Emiliano Zapata to overcome challenges. In the uplifting anthem “Rubicon,” he brushes off negativity, surrounds himself with a tight-knit circle, and revels in the high life, accompanied by vibrant banda music. “The necklaces that I wear on my chest take care of me, keeping away jealousy and treachery,” he sings in Spanish. The most bélico of them all is the knockout collaboration “77” featuring Latin trap star Eladio Carrión.
But Peso Pluma also showcases his romantic side through corridos. On the sultry “Lady Gaga,” he collaborates with Junior H and Ballesteros to express enchantment with an influencer who exudes extravagant style. On the other hand, “Bye” is a haunting farewell to an ex-girlfriend who shattered his heart. In an emotionally charged performance, he sings about numbing the pain with weed and alcohol, baring his soul.
The album takes a more adventurous turn with alternative rock influences, evident in the dreamy track “Luna,” featuring Junior H. The fervent guitar chords typically found in corridos tumbados are softened by an emo edge as both artists plea for the moon to watch over their lingering thoughts of past lovers. “Lagunas” twinkles with a similar charm as Peso Pluma and Jasiel Nuñez reminisce about past relationships that might have worked out in another galaxy.
‘Génesis’ marks the dawn of Peso Pluma’s reign as a global game-changer in the world of corridos. While rooted in Mexican traditions, he fearlessly carries his culture forward in a refreshing and boundary-pushing manner. Just as his name implies, this “featherweight” has plenty more fight left in him, and his musical journey is only just beginning.
