**Mexican Band's US Visas Canceled Over Concert Glorifying Drug Kingpin**

The revocation of visas amidst rising concerns over music glorifying drug cartel leaders highlights the complex relationship between cultural expression and criminal glorification.

In a move that has sparked significant attention, the US State Department has revoked the visas of members of the Mexican band Los Alegres del Barranco after they projected an image of notorious drug kingpin El Mencho at a recent concert. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau announced the decision, connecting the band's actions to the glorification of crime. El Mencho, born Nemesio Oseguera Ramos, heads the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), recognized as one of the most formidable drug trafficking organizations in Mexico.

Landau emphasized the administration's stringent stance on foreign access to the US in a post on X, noting that glorifying criminals contradicts the government's efforts to combat drug-related violence and improve security. Los Alegres del Barranco was slated to perform in multiple states across the US, including Oklahoma and California, gaining popularity especially within Mexican-American communities.

The controversy erupted during a concert in Zapopan, Mexico, where the band showcased an image of El Mencho while performing a song that praised him. Narcocorridos, songs that revere cartel leaders, are common in Mexico, but such displays have sparked backlash from both US and Mexican authorities.

Historically, norteño bands have often been entangled with drug cartels, receiving funding for songs and performances linked to illegal activities. Los Alegres del Barranco’s repertoire includes an earlier narcocorrido about Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán, the notorious Sinaloa cartel chief, celebrating his wealth and underground popularity.

In light of the incident, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum criticized the band's actions, insisting that such glorification of criminal figures is unacceptable and calling for an investigation. Meanwhile, the lead singer expressed gratitude for the attention received, highlighting the complex dynamics of fame and cultural expression within the controversial genre of narcocorrido music. As the situation develops, it raises questions about the intersection of art, morality, and the ongoing battle against drug-related violence in both Mexico and the US.