Mexico Provides State Protection to Natanael Cano Following Drug Cartel Threats Against Corridos Artists

Mexican authorities are providing state protection to Natanael Cano and other musicians after they received threats from a drug cartel. The threats were made public through a banner in northern Mexico, as confirmed by prosecutors. The banner, which circulated on social media, targeted Cano, known for singing corridos—a genre often associated with cartel violence—and other artists in Sonora.

The banner was allegedly signed by "Jalisco Matasalas," a faction within the Sinaloa cartel's "Chapitos" group. This group has been involved in violent power struggles in northern Mexico recently. They accused the artists of financially supporting a rival gang called "Salazares." The message warned, "This is the last time you will receive a warning, just in time for you to cut the crap. Mind your own business. If you don't heed this warning, you will be shot."

State Protection Offered Amid Rising Tensions

The Sonoran Prosecutors Office reported that the threatening banner was found hanging from a school. They have launched an investigation into the matter. Allan de la Rosa, a spokesperson for the prosecutors, stated that state protection is being offered to the artists to prevent any aggression related to the threat. However, he did not specify what kind of protection would be provided.

Cano's communications team has not yet commented on the situation. Corridos, which are ballads originating from northern Mexico, have long been linked to drug violence but also reflect the harsh realities faced by many Mexicans living under such conditions. This genre is experiencing renewed popularity among younger artists like Cano and Peso Pluma, who mix traditional styles with modern genres like trap music.

Music Genre Under Scrutiny

In recent years, Mexican music streaming has surged by 400% on platforms like Spotify. In 2023, Peso Pluma surpassed Taylor Swift as the most streamed artist on YouTube. Despite their success, these artists face criticism from authorities and threats from drug gangs.

Earlier in 2023, Peso Pluma had to cancel a concert in Tijuana after receiving threats from a Sinaloa Cartel rival. The threat warned that it would be his last performance if he proceeded with the show. Consequently, Tijuana banned narco ballads to protect young people from exposure to violence.

Impact of Cartel Violence on Music

The threat against Cano comes amid escalating violence in Sinaloa and other northern Mexican states. This violence was triggered by the kidnapping and capture of drug lord Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada and subsequent conflicts between rival Sinaloa Cartel factions, including those allegedly threatening Cano.

Local authorities in northern states have previously banned musicians from performing narcocorridos due to their association with cartel activities. These developments highlight ongoing tensions between cultural expression and efforts to curb violence.