Coachella 2024: Peso Pluma confronts claims of propagating drug culture
Peso Pluma—the emerging pop sensation from Guadalajara, Mexico—has been making headlines since his debut with Ah y Qué? in 2020. His unique fusion of regional Mexican music has attracted international attention and led to collaborations with Latin music icons such as Kali Uchis, Karol G, and Becky G, among others. However, his swift rise to fame has been marred by controversy over lyrics accused of glorifying drug trafficking culture, a claim he addressed during his recent performance at Coachella.
Pluma's spectacular Coachella performance
Pluma's performance on the main stage of Coachella's opening day on Friday was a sight to behold. The show began with narration by Morgan Freeman and visuals of Chalino Sanchez, a revered Mexican regional artist who tragically lost his life to cartel violence in 1992. Throughout the performance, Pluma integrated news clips about himself and other artists accused of promoting "narco culture in their music."
This is what Freeman said in the video
While Pluma didn't say anything directly, his message was clear through Freeman's words. "What comes is the growth — some of us grow in the light," said Freeman. "We reflect the surroundings around us. We mirror the opportunity we are given. But for others, they grow in the shadows — where it's what you do that defines you."
Pluma's musical homage and album announcement
Accompanied by his seven-piece band, he delivered an electrifying performance that included popular hits like Rubicon, La Bebe, and Lady Gaga. The stage welcomed guest appearances from pop star Becky G, Mexican rap sensation Santa Fe Klan, Arcangel, and Junior H. The performance paid tribute to Mexican music legends such as Jenni Rivera, Joan Sebastian, Ariel Camacho, and Ramon Ayala. As the set concluded, Freeman announced the title of his forthcoming album: Exodus.
Know more about the 24-year-old pop sensation
Pluma, renowned for his distinct musical style blending corridos tumbados with elements of Latin urban music, is credited with revitalizing the corridos genre. His crossover appeal has made him the most streamed artist in Mexico's music history. Collaborations with Natanael Cano have become chart-topping hits, propelled by TikTok. Meanwhile, his last album Génesis clinched the Grammy Award for Best Música Mexicana Album in 2023.
Other major highlights from Coachella Day 1
Coachella's first day was not just about the stellar performances but also about unexpected revelations. Shakira stunned fans by joining Bizarap on stage and then surprised everyone by announcing a world tour with him after their performance of La Fuerte. Meanwhile, Suki Waterhouse took her moment on stage to reveal her newborn baby's gender. In other news, London-based R&B girl group FLO gained attention for putting a modern spin on the 1990s girl group concept.