Popular Mexican regional band Grupo Firme announced on Friday that it would cancel its scheduled performance at a music festival in Napa Valley, California, due to the suspension of their visas by the U.S. government.
The U.S. State Department recently revoked visas for several Mexican musicians, citing concerns over a music genre that it claims glorifies cartel violence. Grupo Firme, which has gained international recognition for their regional Mexican music, stated on Instagram that their visas and those of their team are currently undergoing “administrative review” by the U.S. Embassy. This review makes it impossible for them to participate in the La Onda Fest on June 1. The band did not specify what the long-term implications of this review might be.
The U.S. Embassy in Mexico declined to comment further, citing confidentiality rules under U.S. law regarding visa cases.
This visa suspension is part of a broader crackdown by the administration of former President Donald Trump on Mexican artists associated with “narco-corridos,” a music style that sometimes portrays cartel leaders as folk heroes. While controversial, much of this music reflects the harsh realities experienced by Mexican youth living amidst cartel violence.
Two months ago, another Mexican band, Los Alegres del Barranco, faced sanctions after displaying images of a leader from the Jalisco New Generation Cartel during a concert in western Mexico.
U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau emphasized the balance between free expression and accountability, stating, “The last thing we need is a welcome mat for people who extol criminals and terrorists.”
In response to the controversy, Grupo Firme has publicly distanced itself from the glorification of criminal groups, announcing in April that it would avoid performing such songs in their concerts.