Inspired by Phish’s upcoming concerts on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, I’ve been diving into the vibrant world of Mexican Songs. I wanted to find those quintessential melodies that instantly evoke the spirit of Mexico, the musical equivalents of cultural touchstones. Think of those tunes that are instantly recognizable and embody the feeling of a place. In my exploration, I’ve discovered six fantastic mexican songs that I’ve been learning to play. I even made some quick recordings on my tenor banjo and mandola to get a feel for them.
First on the list is La Cucaracha, which playfully translates to “the cockroach.” This mexican song is arguably the most universally recognized mexican folk song. Its catchy and simple melody has made it a staple across generations and cultures.
Next up is South of the Border (Down Mexico Way). This classic cowboy-style mexican song, although written by Jimmy Kennedy and Michael Carr, paints a vivid picture of Mexico. Its enduring appeal is evident in the vast number of artists who have recorded it, from country legends like Willie Nelson and crooners like Frank Sinatra to contemporary artists such as Flaco Jimenez, Chris Isaak, and even jazz guitarist Bill Frisell. This song truly transcends genres and generations.
Another instantly recognizable mexican folk song is Jarabe Tapatio, famously known as “The Mexican Hat Dance.” This lively and rhythmic tune is a cornerstone of Mexican culture and is often considered Mexico’s national dance. You might even recognize its spirited melody from baseball games, where it’s frequently played on the organ to energize the crowd.
Moving into a different genre, Tequila stands out as a high-energy, Latin-flavored rock and roll instrumental from the 1950s, recorded by The Champs. This mexican song gained further fame when Pee-wee Herman iconically danced to it in “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure,” cementing its place in pop culture.
For a more romantic feel, there’s Besame Mucho. This beautiful mexican bolero, written by Consuelo Velazquez, translates to “kiss me a lot.” Its passionate melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it a timeless classic, loved and performed worldwide.
Finally, Sobre Las Olas, a graceful mexican waltz, is also widely known as “Over the Waves,” particularly in the United States. Composed by the talented Mexican composer Juventino Rosas, this mexican song often conjures images of the circus, frequently accompanying trapeze artists as they perform their daring feats.
This list is just a starting point in exploring the rich tapestry of mexican songs. Are there any other essential, classic, or just plain fun mexican songs that you think should be added to this collection? I’m eager to expand my repertoire and delve even deeper into the sounds of Mexico.
