Los Tucanes de Tijuana: Narco culture’s musical ambassadors

Los Tucanes de Tijuana (LTdT), one of Mexico’s most successful musical acts, will be in Grand Rapids on Saturday night, and judging by their long legacy in the industry, this is going to be a thrilling concert for a host of reasons.

First, LTdT has created one of the most amazing discographies of any Mexican musical act, with a prolific knack of creating compelling and timely compositions that reflect the times.

What started in 1987 at a pub at Bar Razza’s Club in Tijuana on the Baja California, their sound has evolved to a commentary on current events.

Secondly, they are part of a genre of Latin American music that leans on the traditions of the Norteña music (similar to the polka or corridor music), but also the emerging genre of  Narcocorrido, which is famously known in Mexico as drug-praising ballads examining the realities of Mexico’s contemporary culture. 

Sure, it is controversial material to base a ballad or dance song on, but isn’t most art created to reflect the realities of any culture? 

LTdT has a solid world following, as they are one of the biggest Latino acts to come out of Mexico, with more than 32 gold records, 30 platinum records, 66 Billboard Magazine hits, and 12 Grammy nominations. The group landed a Latin Grammy Award for Best Norteño Album (2012) for their release “365 Dias.” 

Pre-sale tickets are just $35, with a special children’s admission of $20. Want to wait until Saturday night to purchase a ticket, then expect to pay $50 day of show.