Grammy-nominated Mariachi Herencia de México is set to perform a tribute concert honoring Vicente “Chente” Fernández at Thalia Hall in Pilsen this Sunday. The group, which has roots in Chicago, will present a setlist of 26 of Fernández’s most well-known songs. César Maldonado, the band’s manager, producer, and founder, said the songs were chosen by the band members.
The performance is part of the group’s ongoing “La Nueva Generación” tour. Later this year, they will also pay tribute to Juan Gabriel with two concerts at the Old Town School of Folk Music in March.
Maldonado emphasized that these performances are intended to celebrate traditional Mexican music while bringing a new sound to both long-time fans and newcomers. He stated: “It is beautiful and that is why we proudly wear our charro suits with respect, with poise. So the world sees the value of Mexican people.”
Maldonado grew up on Chicago’s Southwest Side as the son of immigrants and was influenced by artists like Fernández and Juan Gabriel. In an effort to connect younger generations with mariachi music, he started a program in Chicago Public Schools that led students to record an album recognized by the Latin Grammy Awards.
Since its founding in 2016, Mariachi Herencia de México has worked to bring mariachi and ranchero music into mainstream attention. Despite challenges, they have earned two Latin Grammy nominations—one for their debut album “Nuestra Herencia” in 2017 and another for Best Mariachi/Ranchero Album for “Herederos” in 2023.
Maldonado noted that each show gives Mexican immigrants a chance to reconnect with their cultural heritage: “an opportunity to enjoy the moment” through familiar music and traditions. He described performing at Thalia Hall as especially meaningful because it serves an iconic Mexican-American community.
Band member Enoc Guerrero highlighted how audiences in Chicago and across the United States respond enthusiastically to mariachi performances: “In Chicago, in the United States, people are even more excited to see mariachi.”
Many musicians in Mariachi Herencia de México come from musical families across Mexico—including Jalisco state—and from different parts of the United States. Alonso Orozco began playing music as a child in Cocula, Jalisco.
Guerrero explained that updating mariachi while preserving its essence comes with responsibility: “It is a big responsibility. We’re taking the traditional sound of mariachi and adding a fresh and modern touch, but always respecting tradition.”
The group’s energetic approach has drawn diverse audiences who fill venues for their shows. Songs such as Fernández’s “El Rey” resonate not only within immigrant communities but also among people from other backgrounds.
“It’s proof that music unites us,” Maldonado said.
During performances—often sold out—the band frequently hears audience members cheer when their hometowns are mentioned from stage or during introductions. Guerrero remarked on these moments: “It is very exciting when we hear that because I love my hometown. We’re bringing some of the best musicians from all of Mexico [to the United States].”
Mariachi Herencia de México uses its albums and live events to keep mariachi vibrant among bicultural and immigrant listeners across borders. Their recent video for Luis Miguel’s “Inolvidable” was filmed around New York City landmarks; performers wore both contemporary clothes and emerald-green charro suits.
“It’s an evolution, like everything. But we’re doing it right, without losing our roots,” said Felipe Miguel Aguilar, one of the trumpet players.
The band also wants broader recognition for mariachi artists’ skills beyond celebrations such as quinceañeras or weddings; Maldonado commented: “We want the public and industry to view mariachi as artists.”
