From ‘La Chacalosa’ to ‘Mariposa de Barrio,’ Jenni Rivera’s songs live on 12 years after her death

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As a film enthusiast and a music lover, I have always been captivated by the story of Jenni Rivera – the legendary Mexican singer who defied odds and reigned supreme in the male-dominated world of música Mexicana. Her larger-than-life personality and raw talent continue to inspire me even after her untimely death in 2012.

Jenni Rivera was grand, and her legacy shows it.

Having released over 20 albums, this artist, who goes by the title “Queen of Mexican Music” herself, has unyieldingly ruled the música Mexicana scene, a domain traditionally held by men.

Following her unfortunate demise in a plane crash in 2012, Rivera became a respected figure representing feminism for those who had the pleasure of knowing her intimately.

In 2012, Flavio Morales, a former senior vice president of programming production for Mun2 (now NBC Universo), acknowledged that Jenni’s voice represented an underrepresented segment of society: hardworking single mothers who dedicate themselves to their families, yet seldom have the opportunity to express their struggles. “I Love Jenni,” a reality TV show on Mun2 (later NBC Universo), highlighted her experiences.

Born and raised in Long Beach, the singer drew inspiration from her own life experiences and relationships for her music. She went through three marriages and became a mother to five children. Rivera didn’t shy away from sharing her experiences with domestic abuse, which she expressed in her 2007 album titled “Mi Vida Loca.”

Morales spoke for an entire segment of society, including myself, my loved ones, and a large number of Mexican-Americans contributing to the contemporary fabric of America.

On Thursday, Rivera will receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Gloria Trevi, a renowned Mexican singer, is scheduled to deliver remarks at the ceremony. However, due to a contentious dispute between Rivera’s grandchildren, aunt, and uncle over her estate, they will be the ones accepting the star on Rivera’s behalf.

Below is a look at some of her greatest hits.

“La Chacalosa” (1994)

As a passionate film enthusiast, I’d like to share an intriguing backstory about a trailblazing musician and her groundbreaking work in the world of narcocorridos. Prior to the rise of corridos tumbados, there existed a captivating piece called “La Chacalosa” by the talented artist named Rivera. In this song, I, Rivera, assumed the daring role of a female drug lord living an illicit lifestyle.

“Las Malandrinas” (2000)

Since 1992, Rivera had been producing music through her family label without gaining mainstream success. However, this all changed with the release of “Las Malandrinas.” This song was the first of hers to gain traction on Spanish radio. The track, featuring authentic drunken cheers in the background, celebrates the unconventional woman who relishes corridos and beer while scornfully looking down on her snobbier counterparts.

“Querida Socia” (2001)

As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but admire Jenni Rivera’s fearlessness when it came to tackling sensitive themes in her music. She didn’t back down from exploring complicated love stories through a morally ambiguous lens. For instance, the “Querida Socia” song is an homage to the other woman and a passionate confession of love, defying the constraints of marriage. And then, eight years later, Rivera offered her take on things as a married woman in the mariachi tune “La Gran Señora.” She softly uttered the term “old hag” towards the other woman.

“Amiga Si Lo Vez!” (2004)

Using the phrase “Amiga Si Lo Vez,” Rivera softens her usual tough exterior and sings a soothing ballad instead. Her strong vocals take center stage amidst the brass instrumentation of this classic tune. Simultaneously, the lyrics reveal her emotional side as she laments over a past love and longs for their reconciliation.

“De Contrabando” (2005)

Surprisingly, one of Rivera’s most beloved tunes is a cover. Originally penned by Mexican ballad singer Joan Sebastian, she gave “De Contrabando” a new life. The piece starts softly with a shy piano introduction before transforming into an upbeat banda number, complete with a muffled trumpet and infectious chorus. The lyrics depict the quiet acceptance of being someone’s secret love.

“Inolvidable” (2007)

As a music enthusiast with a soft spot for Latin genres, I’ve had the privilege of discovering and appreciating the work of many remarkable artists throughout my life. Among them is “La diva de la banda,” whose legacy continues to resonate deeply within the Latino community and beyond, long after her passing.

“Mariposa de Barrio” (2007)

In “Mariposa de Barrio,” I share Rivera’s musical journey, describing myself as a caterpillar encountering life’s dark challenges. However, on stage, I spread my butterfly wings, discovering my true love for music. Although the song doesn’t mention it explicitly, Rivera faced domestic abuse, infidelity, and divorce in her personal life. This powerful ballad is also the title track for the Netflix series “Mariposa de Barrio,” inspired by Rivera’s autobiography “Unbreakable: My Story, My Way,” published after her passing.

https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=playlist/6rxHTdzV9CPGGfdOGfPMkl

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2024-07-18 21:06