El Señor de La Montaña

The song 'El Señor de La Montaña' by Julión Álvarez y Su Norteño Banda is a narrative piece that delves into the life and legend of a notorious figure, presumably a drug lord, who is both revered and feared. The lyrics paint a picture of Joaquin Loera, a name that is likely a reference to Joaquín 'El Chapo' Guzmán, the infamous Mexican drug lord and former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel. The song describes him as a fugitive from justice, a 'lord of the mountain' and a boss in the city, suggesting his control over both rural and urban territories.

The song's verses highlight the loyalty and protection that surround this figure. He is described as a friend to his friends and an enemy to his enemies, indicating a code of honor among his associates. The lyrics also mention the backing of a colonel and other military ranks, implying corruption and collusion within the government or military forces. The presence of 'wachitos', 'tenientes', and 'talibanes' suggests a heavily armed entourage that guards him day and night. The mention of 'Mochomos' cleaning the paths for Joaquin's transit indicates the use of scouts or underlings to ensure his safe passage.

Culturally, the song fits within the genre of narcocorridos, a type of Mexican music that tells the stories of drug traffickers and their exploits. These songs often romanticize the criminal lifestyle and present the figures they describe in a heroic light. 'El Señor de La Montaña' seems to follow this tradition, portraying its subject as a larger-than-life character who is admired and almost mythic in stature. The song's narrative contributes to the complex cultural phenomenon where criminal figures are sometimes celebrated in popular media, despite their illicit activities.