Music that Defines Us: Celebrating Mexican Music (English Version)

From mariachi to norteño, Mexican music is a vibrant reflection of the country’s rich cultural heritage. Click here for Spanish version

By: Ashley Marina Acevedo

When asked about her favorite artist, Aliya Leyva, ’29, replied, “Romero Santos, and my favorite album is his oldest.”

Romero Santos is a Dominican-Puerto Rican artist born in the Bronx. His music has influenced many, including Leyva. Leyva’s favorite Santos song is “Eres Mía.”

Joanna Villalvato, ’29, talks about her favorite artist: “My favorite Mexican artist is Iván Conejo, and I like all his albums.”

Iván Conejo is a Mexican-American singer born in Riverside, California. His music is very slow and relaxing. An example of this is his song “Baby Please,” which is also Villalvato’s favorite of his.

Natalie Serrano, ’27, then talks about her favorite artist and album: “I don’t listen to much Spanish music, but when I do, I like to listen to Jenni Rivera. I like most of her albums.”

Serrano says, “In most of her songs, she talks about everyday situations; I identify with many of them, but not so much with others.”

Jenni Rivera is a Mexican-American singer whose music is so relaxing that Serrano can’t choose a favorite song, he says he likes them all.

Our last interview was with Aiden Sanchez, ‘28. He talks about his favorite artist, “My favorite artist is Carla Morrison; her voice conveys so much emotion and has greatly influenced my worldview.”

Carla Morrison is a Mexican indie-pop singer with a soft, emotive voice; her songs are the most impactful, and Sanchez’s favorite is “Eres Tú” for the power of her lyrics.

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