There might be several genres of music that have come out over the years, but there’s just something special about mariachi songs. Not only are mariachi songs extremely important to individuals of Spanish heritage, but even as just regular songs they have such a positive energy that always makes me want to dance.
To help you guys discover some underrated mariachi songs, I got to scouring the internet. I took several factors into account like the overall catchiness, popularity, and uniqueness to pick out the best of them. This is how I was able to compile this list of the 50 best mariachi songs of all time.
Below are the 50 best mariachi songs
- El Son De La Negra (1998) – Mariachi Vargas De Tecalitlán
- La Bikina (2000) – Luis Miguel
- Si Nos Dejan (1976) – José Alfredo Jiménez
- El Sinaloense (2003) – Valentín Elizalde
- Mi Padre (1995) – Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán
- Volver, Volver (1972) – Vicente Fernández
- Jarabe Tapatio – (1987) – Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán
- Cielito Lindo (2014) – André Rieu
- Guadalajara (1937) – Pepe Guízar
- El Son de la Negra (1953) – Silvestre Vargas
- Las Mañanitas (1990) – Vicente Fernández
- Serenata Huasteca (1956) – José Alfredo Jiménez
- La Malagueña (1947) – Elpidio Ramírez and Pedro Galindo
- Amor Eterno (1990) – Juan Gabriel
- México Lindo y Querido (1921) – Chucho Monge
- Besame Mucho (1997) – Consuelo Velázquez
- Jalisco No Te Rajes (1941) – Manuel Esperón
- Las Golondrinas (2004) – Guadalupe Pineda
- El Rey (1991) – Vicente Fernández
- Perdón Madrecita (1972) – Vicente Fernández
- Mi Ciudad (2006) – Guadalupe Trigo
- Por Tu Maldito Amor (1989) – Vicente Fernández
- El Mariachi Loco (2012) – Pedro Fernández
- Acá Entre Nos (1992) – Vincente Fernández
- Le Media Vuelta (1994) – Luis Miguel
- La Malagueña (1981) – Luis Miguel
- Besame Mucho (2010) – Trío Azteca
- La Llorona (2018) – Ángela Aguilar
- La Bamba (1959) – Ritchie Valens
- Que Bonita Es Mi Tierra (2017) – Luis Miguel
- Amor Amor (2010) – Trío Azteca
- Mi Linda Esposa (2016) – Organización Génesis
- La Martina (2010) – Antonio Aguilar
- No Volveré (1991) – Manuel Esperón
- Paloma Querida (1964) – José Alfredo Jiménez
- Malagueña Salerosa (2004) – Chingon
- Guantanamera (2010) – Mariachi Ole
- Madrecita Querida (1963) – Vicente Fernandez
- Historia De Un Amor (2015) – Guadalupe Pineda
- ¡Ay, Jalisco, No Te Rajes! (1041) – Jorge Negrete
- Popurrí Boleros (2019) – Mariachi Los Camperos
- El Gustito (1991) – Linda Ronstadt
- El Borracho (2020) – Los Dos Carnales
- La Mano de Dios (1962) – José Alfredo Jiménez
- La Negra Tomasa (1988) – Caifanes
- Siempre te Amaré (2016) – Athenas
- Amigos Para Siempre (1992) – Los Manolos
- El Jalisciense (1972) – Vicente Fernández
- ¿Quién Será (1953) – Luis Demetrio
- Caminos De Guanajuato (2013) – Banda La Chacaloza De Jerez Zacatecas
1. El Son De La Negra (1998) – Mariachi Vargas De Tecalitlán
The first mariachi song most people think of when they hear the term mariachi has to be “El Son De La Negra.” Made after a Mexican folk song, this song has stood the test of time and has gone on to be one of the most recognizable mariachi songs out there.
This song is so famous and loved that it has even been called Mexico’s unofficial national anthem before. It takes the traditional mariachi style that we all know and love and amplifies it to be ten times better.
2. La Bikina (2000) – Luis Miguel
If you’ve ever been to a Mexican wedding then it’s very likely that you’ve heard the contemporary mariachi song that is “La Bikina.” Having come out in 2000, this song took over the Mexican wedding culture and became to people of Mexican heritage what Ed Sheeran’s ‘Perfect’ is to most Americans.
What I personally love about this song is just how upbeat and catchy it is. It isn’t too fast but it isn’t too slow either, and you can really feel the emotion behind the voice of the singer.
3. Si Nos Dejan (1976) – José Alfredo Jiménez
If you’re looking for a mariachi song to play at your wedding then “Si Nos Dejan” is the song for you. Just one listen to it will make you feel the love the singer poured into every single word in this song.
If that wasn’t all, the lyrics aren’t anything to scoff at either. The song revolves around two lovers wanting to stay with each other for all of eternity, and I think that’s absolutely beautiful.
4. El Sinaloense (2003) – Valentín Elizalde
Another song that has some really romantic lyrics is the mariachi classic that is “El Sinaloense.” In addition to being super romantic, it also has a very catchy beat that it adopts by using the classic mariachi tune. Talk about being the best of both worlds.
5. Mi Padre (1995) – Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán
Mexican culture is very different from many other cultures in the world, and no other mariachi song proves this more than “Mi Padre.” This song is about a son singing about his father. He talks about how his father has been such a strong influence and positive role model in his life and how he aspires to be like him one day.
If romantic love songs don’t bring a tear to your eye, then maybe this anthem of the love between a son and his father might.
6. Volver, Volver (1972) – Vicente Fernández
“Volver, Volver” is another extremely positive mariachi love song that is excellent for people wanting to get up and dance their butts off. This has to have one of the best beats I’ve ever heard, and I’m someone who has literally grown up listening to all types of songs.
7. Jarabe Tapatio – (1987) – Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán
Making another appearance on this list, the mariachi band Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán just had a habit of pumping out hits after hits. “Jarabe Tapatio” is another one of those hits that makes you want to get up and dance, regardless of the circumstances of you listening to this song.
8. Cielito Lindo (2014) – André Rieu
Come on, you know this song was going to come up on this list. “Cielito Lindo” is a song that’s important to Mexicans everywhere, not only for perfectly capturing what it means to be of Mexican heritage but also because it’s a song that got past the borders to become a worldwide phenomenon.
While the song is nowhere near as old as some of the entries on this list, it went on to affect even a national election in a distant country in South America.
9. Guadalajara (1937) – Pepe Guízar
“Guadalajara” is a well-known mariachi song written and composed by Pepe Guízar in 1937. This song holds immense cultural and historical value as it’s written in tribute to the city of Guadalajara.
This song perfectly captures the beauty of not only the Mexican land but also the Mexican culture and has stood the test of time as an anthem for Mexicans everywhere.
10. El Son de la Negra (1953) – Silvestre Vargas
Another song that is regarded as the secondary national anthem for Mexicans is “El Son de la Negra.” The upbeat tempo of this song never fails to make me want to get up and dance, and who knows, it might have the same effect on you too.
11. Las Mañanitas (1990) – Vicente Fernández
For all the Mexican readers out there who have ever celebrated a birthday with Mexican friends and family, it’s very likely that you recognize “Las Mañanitas.” After all, it’s recognized as a Mexican birthday song and has been played at countless birthday parties over the years. While we don’t want to give credit to just one band or singer, my favorite version of this song has to be the one by Vicente Fernández.
12. Serenata Huasteca (1956) – José Alfredo Jiménez
For those looking for a more calming serenade with the mariachi beat that we all know and love, I can’t recommend “Serenata Huasteca” anymore. This song perfectly captures the feeling of singing for someone you love, and only someone who has experienced how it feels to truly love someone can really relate to this song.
13. La Malagueña (1947) – Elpidio Ramírez and Pedro Galindo
Passionate lyrics and a dynamic but positive melody, what more could anyone want? This is a traditional folk song that really puts the lyrical prowess of any singer to the test. It’s dramatic, it’s intense, and it shows everyone just how versatile the mariachi genre of music is.
14. Amor Eterno (1990) – Juan Gabriel
“Amor Eterno” is considered by many to be one of, if not the greatest love songs ever made. You don’t need to understand the lyrics to feel the raw emotion the singer pours into every word of the song.
This is a ballad about undying love, and it’s sure to make even the most stone cold hearts melt.
15. México Lindo y Querido (1921) – Chucho Monge
Regardless of whether or not you’ve been to Mexico, hearing “México Lindo y Querido” even once will make you want to pack your bags to head there at once. This song beautifully describes the serene nature related to the country of Mexico.
This song is so loved that it has long been embraced as an unofficial anthem of the nation. It’ll make even the least patriotic Mexican individual feel a sense of pride and joy for their roots.
16. Besame Mucho (1997) – Consuelo Velázquez
“Besame Mucho” is an internationally loved song that has been covered by countless people over the years. With that being said, my personal favorite rendition of it has to be by Consuelo Velázquez. This late singer just had a way with music that really connected with me.
17. Jalisco No Te Rajes (1941) – Manuel Esperón
Jalisco is known as the birthplace of mariachi. Therefore, it’s only natural that there would be multiple songs dedicated to that country, right? Well, “Jalisco No Te Rajes” has to be the song dedicated to that country that stands out the most for the pride, love, and admiration it has for Jalisco.
Hey, I’ve never been to Jalisco but I still felt pride. I can’t even imagine how proud the citizens of that country must feel after listening to this beautiful mariachi song.
18. Las Golondrinas (2004) – Guadalupe Pineda
Now, I know that most mariachi songs are super upbeat. However, I wanted to mix things up a little by highlighting a sad mariachi song as well. “Las Golondrinas” is often played for funerals and is recognized as one of the saddest mariachi songs of all time. Well, not like there’s too much competition.
19. El Rey (1991) – Vicente Fernández
Hey, how could I not put the winner of the Latin Grammy Hall of Fame Award on this list? “El Rey” is a song that speaks of a king who wants to lead his people to a better life. However, despite his noble intentions, he’s always misunderstood by those around him which leads to nothing but difficulties for him.
20. Perdón Madrecita (1972) – Vicente Fernández
We went through a song that’s dedicated to a father’s love, so it’s only natural that we include a mother’s love too, right? “Perdón Madrecita” is a song that is very commonly played during Mother’s Day, especially since the lyrics have the singer apologizing to his mother for any time he hurt her.
He also recognizes that it’s because of his mother’s love that he has been able to make it as far in life as he has.
21. Mi Ciudad (2006) – Guadalupe Trigo
This song is a tribute to Mexico City, perfectly capturing its vast urban landscapes and bustling life. Regardless of whether you’re living there right now or have moved from there, this song is sure to evoke a sense of nostalgia from you. Nothing like a little homesickness to start the day, right?
22. Por Tu Maldito Amor (1989) – Vicente Fernández
“Por Tu Maldito Amor” has to be one of the most heartfelt and tragic mariachi songs of all time. This song really shows the range of mariachi songs and proves that they can be more than upbeat and positive songs.
23. El Mariachi Loco (2012) – Pedro Fernández
Moving on from the sad and deep song, how about highlighting a song that perfectly captures what most people think of when they hear about mariachi music? “El Mariachi Loco” has everything you would expect from a mariachi song. Catchy lyrics, an upbeat tempo, and an overall fun vibe.
24. Acá Entre Nos (1992) – Vincente Fernández
I guess you could say I’m a bit of a Vincente Fernández fan, which is why you can expect to see him on this list again. “Acá Entre Nos” is another sad mariachi song about two lovers who have parted. While the singer talks about how hard he tried to get over his love, it’s clear that his efforts have been for naught, and even though they weren’t meant to be, his feelings won’t ever change.
25. Le Media Vuelta (1994) – Luis Miguel
I’ll keep this train of sad songs going with “Le Media Vuelta.” This song is about a singer who says the love of his life is leaving because he wants her to. According to him, she deserves much more than he can give her, and for that, their love isn’t meant to be. Deep stuff if you ask me.
26. La Malagueña (1981) – Luis Miguel
That’s right, coming on this list for the third time is Luis Miguel again. This just goes to show how big of an impact he has had on the mariachi scene as a whole.
“La Malagueña” is another upbeat song of his that amazingly showcases his amazing singing abilities. If someone ever says Luis Miguel is overrated, just have them listen to this song once. I guarantee they’ll see the light.
27. Besame Mucho (2010) – Trío Azteca
This is one of the more unique bands in the mariachi scene for one specific reason. You see, mariachi bands typically only have males, which is why the inclusion of one female member in “Besame Mucho” makes the song sound different yet familiar. I absolutely love it!
28. La Llorona (2018) – Ángela Aguilar
If you’re interested in some more paranormal Mexican stories then “La Llorona” is the song for you. This song revolves around a ghost and this is exactly why it’s so commonly played on the Day of the Dead. The fact that no one knows the original singer of this song makes this all the more chilling yet interesting.
29. La Bamba (1959) – Ritchie Valens
Up next is “La Bamba,” a song some of you might recognize as being on Rolling Stone’s Top 500 Greatest Songs of All Time list. That isn’t a small feat, that’s for sure. While the lyrics of the song change slightly depending on who’s performing it, the one thing that never changes is that it always motivates people to dance.
30. Que Bonita Es Mi Tierra (2017) – Luis Miguel
That’s right, another song by Luis Miguel. Is it the last song by him I put on this list? Who knows. What I do know is that “Que Bonita Es Mi Tierra” is an absolute mariachi classic that everyone should definitely listen to.
The lyrics celebrate the beauty of the world, and they describe how Mexicans long to return home whenever they travel abroad. Unfortunately, not everyone is able to return home, whether that be for work or other responsibilities they might have.
31. Amor Amor (2010) – Trío Azteca
Enough about heartbreak. How about highlighting a song that sings about wanting to fall in love when the time is right? With a name like “Amor Amor,” this song is bound to be a blast for anyone waiting for that right person to walk into their lives to change it for the better.
32. Mi Linda Esposa (2016) – Organización Génesis
Oh, are you looking for a mariachi song to celebrate a night out with the love of your life? Well, how about the song that literally translates to “My Beautiful Wife?” Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or just to cool down your significant other after an argument, this song is sure to lighten the mood.
33. La Martina (2010) – Antonio Aguilar
If you can understand Spanish, then this might not be the song for you. While “La Martina” is indeed a banger of a song in terms of how it sounds, the lyrics are rather troubling. It’s about a man who finds out his wife has been unfaithful.
When no one reprimands or disciplines her, the husband takes matters into his own hands. If you catch my drift. This is definitely a song that could NOT be made today.
34. No Volveré (1991) – Manuel Esperón
“No Volveré” is an inspirational song about moving on from heartbreak. We’ve all been at a point in our lives where we think that we just can’t move on and things won’t ever get better. However, this song reminds us that life really is worth living.
35. Paloma Querida (1964) – José Alfredo Jiménez
Here’s another song that highlights the tenderness and romantic vibe of mariachi songs. “Paloma Querida” is a song that has enchanted people from all over the world through the years. Regardless of what generation you’re from, you’re sure to feel some sort of way when you listen to this song.
36. Malagueña Salerosa (2004) – Chingon
If you’ve seen Quentin Tarantino’s film, Kill Bill: Vol. 2, then you might recognize this song as being part of it. Hey, if there’s one thing cinema lovers know about Tarantino it’s that he has immaculate taste in music, and that’s proven by how “Malagueña Salerosa” is an absolute banger of a mariachi song.
37. Guantanamera (2010) – Mariachi Ole
While not a mariachi song in the traditional sense, “Guantanamera” has seen worldwide recognition for being such an upbeat, positive, and memorable song. While it has been covered by many singers and bands in the past, my favorite cover has to be the one by Mariachi Ole.
38. Madrecita Querida (1963) – Vicente Fernandez
Vicente Fernandez is considered by many to be the single best singer and songwriter of mariachi songs, and all of his songs that made it on this list make me think the same. “Madrecita Querida” also focuses on a mother’s love and how important it is for children to experience it.
39. Historia De Un Amor (2015) – Guadalupe Pineda
Written by a Panamanian writer in tribute to his brother’s wife who had recently passed away, “Historia De Un Amor” first appeared in a 1956 film and is still popular to this day. Talk about leaving an impact for generations to come.
40. ¡Ay, Jalisco, No Te Rajes! (1041) – Jorge Negrete
Here’s a rather unique mariachi song. In a rather weird twist, this song talks of the Mexican state of Jalisco as having a love affair with its capital city, Guadalajara. Weird, right? Well, weird looks to have worked for them as it eventually became the song for the Disney film The Three Caballeros.
41. Popurrí Boleros (2019) – Mariachi Los Camperos
Despite being one of the most recent mariachi songs on this list, it’s far from being the worst. This song is a tragic and deep song about heartbreak. The singer begs his lover not to leave him, but he already knows that they just weren’t meant to be.
42. El Gustito (1991) – Linda Ronstadt
If you want any celebration to be a blast with everyone having a good time then all you have to do is have a mariachi band sing “El Gustito.” I guarantee it’ll get everyone up and dancing while screaming “Ay la la la.”
43. El Borracho (2020) – Los Dos Carnales
Translating to “The Drunk,” “El Borracho” is a mariachi song that doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s very common to play this song at parties or other celebratory occasions to loosen people up and get them in the mood for a good time. I speak from experience when I say it totally works.
44. La Mano de Dios (1962) – José Alfredo Jiménez
“La Mano de Dios” is one of, if not the most passionate mariachi song on this list. The lyrics talk about two people who are so strongly in love that only God himself can break the trust and feelings they have for each other.
If you’re looking to propose to someone or maybe celebrate an anniversary with your loved on, I highly recommend you hire a mariachi band to play this song.
45. La Negra Tomasa (1988) – Caifanes
Moving on, “La Negra Tomasa” is an incredibly upbeat and festive mariachi song that can bring life to any party. If you feel as though any celebration is a little too boring, then all you have to do is play this bad boy and the party will really get amped up.
46. Siempre te Amaré (2016) – Athenas
This song is absolutely perfect for weddings and other events where love is the main theme. It’s a super passionate and soulful song that is sure to melt anyone’s heart with its hard hitting lyrics and a beat that makes you want to slow dance. Sorry Celine Dion, but there’s a new song I want to listen to while imagining my nonexistent love life.
47. Amigos Para Siempre (1992) – Los Manolos
I’ve talked about songs that are based on a father’s love, a mother’s love, and the love of a significant other. But how about the love of a best friend? “Amigos Para Siempre” is a mariachi song that explores the love two best friends have for each other.
These two have been together through thick and thin, and they both know that when one of them needs the other’s support, they’ll get it no matter the circumstances. Be right back, I’m texting my best friend real quick.
48. El Jalisciense (1972) – Vicente Fernández
This is another super cheerful song that’s sure to bring life to any party. It doesn’t matter what the context of the party is, as long as there are people and there’s a mariachi band singing this song then you can rest assured the party will be a memorable one.
49. ¿Quién Será (1953) – Luis Demetrio
This is one of my favorite mariachi songs on this list because how you feel about it depends on whether or not you know the language. If you don’t understand the lyrics then this is just another typical mariachi song that makes you want to get up and dance.
However, if you DO understand the lyrics, then you’ll realize the lyrics of this song are so much deeper than you could have imagined. It’s an emotional love song that can be perfect for weddings.
50. Caminos De Guanajuato (2013) – Banda La Chacaloza De Jerez Zacatecas
Only those who have left their hometown will be able to relate to this bittersweet song. The lyrics speak of how bittersweet it can be to build a life away from your roots. How you constantly long to go back but aren’t able to because of your circumstances.
FAQs
What is the historical significance of Mariachi music in Mexican culture, and how has it evolved over time?
Mariachi music has deep roots in Mexican culture, serving as a symbol of national identity. It has evolved from regional folk music to a genre recognized worldwide. It has also become much more versatile, having serenades and the like in addition to the typical upbeat songs.
What are the key musical elements and instruments typically found in a Mariachi ensemble?
Mariachi ensembles typically include instruments like the trumpet, violin, guitar, and vihuela. They all work together to create a vibrant and festive sound.
What themes and emotions are commonly conveyed in Mariachi lyrics?
Mariachi lyrics often express themes of love, heartbreak, Mexican patriotism, and rural life. These themes deeply resonate with the cultural and emotional experiences of the Mexican people.