Who Owns the Corrido “El Hijo Mayor”?
The corrido, “El Hijo Mayor,” has been a part of Mexican culture since the early 1900s. This ballad tells the story of a family’s oldest son and his struggles to establish a life for himself and his loved ones. While the origins of the song are contested, its lyrics have resonated with generations of Mexicans, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of the country’s working-class families.
The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Antonio Aguilar, Juan Villarreal, and Ramon Ayala. Despite its enduring popularity, the question of who owns the corrido “El Hijo Mayor” remains controversial.
Some people claim that the song’s original composer was Angel Peralta, a Mexican musician and composer born in Jalisco. Others suggest that Jose Alfredo Jimenez, the legendary singer and songwriter, wrote the song. However, there are no conclusive records that prove the authorship of “El Hijo Mayor.”
Despite the mystery surrounding the song’s origins, its powerful lyrics have made it a classic in Mexican music. The song details the life of the oldest son in a poor family, his struggles in overcoming poverty, and his dedication to helping his loved ones. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the hardships faced by families living in poverty and holds a strong, emotional resonance with millions of Mexicans.
The corrido’s distinctive melodies and catchy rhythms have also captured the attention of non-Spanish speakers worldwide. There are variations of the song in many different languages, highlighting its universality and the impact of its themes on people of all backgrounds.
In recent years, a few individuals have come forward claiming the rights to the song. They argue that they own the rights to the melody and lyrics and should be compensated for its use. These claims have led to legal battles and controversies within the Mexican music industry.
Despite the ownership dispute, the corrido “El Hijo Mayor” remains a beloved song among Mexicans. Its poignant message of determination in the face of adversity and the importance of family resonates deeply with Mexican culture and has become a symbol of resilience and endurance for generations.
In conclusion, the corrido “El Hijo Mayor” is a timeless classic of Mexican music that has endured for over a century. While the exact origins of the song have been lost to time, its themes of overcoming adversity and the importance of family continue to inspire people around the world. Despite the ownership disputes that have arisen in recent years, the song remains an integral part of Mexican heritage and a testament to the power of music to connect people across borders and cultures.
