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Progressive Corridos Are Making a Comeback: Differences from Corridos Tumbados

Around 2008, progressive corridos went viral as a unique musical subgenre

Archivado en: Gabito Ballesteros  •   Natanael Cano  •   Peso Pluma  •  

The corridos tumbados, also known as trap corridos, caught the international music industry off guard and thrust several artists, including the already famous Peso Pluma, into the spotlight of fame. However, around 2008, progressive corridos went viral as a unique musical subgenre. It stood out not just for its distinctive sounds but also for the exotic attire worn by its performers. If you’re someone who isn’t familiar or doesn’t quite remember what this subgenre is all about, don’t worry—we’ll explain all the details right here.

What Progressive Corridos?

Progressive corridos, also known as ‘movimiento alterado,’ (altered movement) is a music subgenre that emerged around 2008, primarily originating in northern Mexico. The songs predominantly address the country’s issues with violence. From the beginning, this genre received criticism for potentially glorifying criminal groups and encouraging drug and weapon use. Despite the controversy and critiques, progressive corridos quickly gained popularity, especially among residents of northern Mexico.

Among the artists who have made their mark in this genre are: Alfredo Ríos ‘El Komander,’ ‘Régulo Caro,’ ‘Gerardo Ortiz,’ ‘Noel Torres,’ ‘Los Buitres de Culiacán,’ ‘Calibre 50,’ ‘Los Cuates de Sinaloa’ or ‘Los Dos Primos,’ and ‘Larry Hernández’.

@gerardoortizoficial #CorridosProgresivos ♬ Aquiles Afirmo – Gerardo Ortiz

An interesting fact is that this subgenre popularized the term ‘Buchona,’ which remains highly popular in Mexico. This term refers to women who are fashion-conscious and prominently display luxuries, jewelry, cars, branded clothing, and are often associated with specific alcoholic beverages. They are also known for their long, elaborately decorated nails and frequent plastic surgeries.

Why Are They Trending Again? 

Progressive corridos were a big deal back then, especially thanks to El Komander. They once stirred up a storm on their official Instagram by sharing info about them, causing quite a stir among their followers with a very edgy image and flashy outfits that were typical of that time.

Now, after some time has passed, El Komander recently hinted on social media about an upcoming song release and tagged singer Regulo Caro. It looks like they’re gearing up to drop a new progressive corrido together. Do you think this kind of corridos are making a comeback to challenge trap corridos?

@letyy_perezz Por Fin😍 Gracias @Regulo Caro #corridosprogresivos#corridos#laviejaescuela#beautyandcorridos#fyp#pt ♬ sonido original – regulocaro.lyrics

Difference Between Progressive Corridos & Trap Corridos 

Progressive corridos and trap corridos are subgenres of regional Mexican music that have become popular in recent years. However, they differ significantly in their style, themes, and focus. Here, we outline the main differences between the two:

Progressive Corridos

Musical Style

  • Instrumentation: Progressive corridos often use a wider range of instruments, including electronic elements and influences from genres like rock and jazz. This gives them a more sophisticated and experimental sound compared to traditional corridos.
  • Structure: They can have more complex and flexible arrangements, with changes in rhythm and intricate instrumental sections.

Themes

  • Content: The lyrics of progressive corridos often tackle contemporary and diverse topics, covering personal triumphs, social issues, philosophical musings, and cultural critiques.
  • Narrative: While they maintain the storytelling tradition of corridos, their narratives tend to explore deeper themes.
Peso Pluma performs at the Coachella Stage during the 2024 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival at Empire Polo Club. Arturo Holmes/Getty Images.

Corridos Tumbados

Musical Style

  • Instrumentation: Corridos tumbados blend traditional corrido elements with influences from trap and hip-hop. They use acoustic guitars and traditional bass lines, but also incorporate electronic beats and synthesizers.
  • Vocalization: The vocals are often relaxed and rhythmic, with clear influences from rap and trap in their delivery.

Themes

  • Content: The lyrics of corridos tumbados typically focus on urban and youthful themes such as neighborhood life, personal resilience, and occasionally, topics like drug trafficking and crime, albeit portrayed in a stylized and less glorified manner compared to traditional corridos.
  • Narrative: They tend to feature a straightforward and gritty narrative style, reflecting the everyday realities of today’s youth.