Mexican Music Star Ernesto Barajas Fatally Shot in Zapopan

Ernesto Barajas, lead singer of the popular Mexican band Enigma Norteño, was fatally shot in a parking lot in Zapopan, Jalisco, by two men on a motorcycle. Barajas was known for performing narco-corridos, a controversial subgenre of music that glorifies drug cartels and their leaders, including songs about Joaquín 'El Chapo' Guzmán's sons and Nemesio Rubén 'El Mencho' of the CJNG cartel. Barajas had previously received threats from organized crime groups, notably the CJNG, leading to show cancellations in 2023, and his killing is being investigated as a possible settling of scores among criminal factions. Enigma Norteño, which boasts over four million monthly listeners, contends their music reflects Mexican culture rather than endorsing violence, though narco-corridos are often commissioned by drug traffickers. Barajas' death is part of a broader pattern of violence against musicians involved in this genre, with other artists also targeted recently. His management company, Tanto Líder, paid tribute to him, highlighting his impact as both an artist and human being.