20 Best Mariachi Songs For Your Playlist [+5 Bonus Mariachi Covers]

Details: blog; Updated: 14th February 2024

Mariachi music is a tradition steeped in history, with familiar songs passed down through generations. Yet it's also a genre that knows how to stay fresh, constantly reinventing itself by putting a mariachi twist on popular contemporary tunes.

In this article, we've curated the top 20 best mariachi songs to add to your playlist. These are the songs that promise to get your guests on their feet, blending traditional South American beats with modern pop melodies.

We include only the most popular mariachi classics that have stood the test of time, along with five of the best contemporary songs reimagined in the mariachi style.

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Popular Traditional Mariachi Songs

So, put on your sombrero, prepare to dance, and let's explore the top 25 best mariachi songs that will make your event unforgettable!

1. Cielito Lindo

Recognised across the globe, "Cielito Lindo" is more than just a song—it's an emblem of Mexican culture. Its cheerful melody and heartening lyrics encapsulate a sense of community and joy, making it an essential part of any Mariachi playlist.

2. El Rey - José Alfredo Jiménez

Aptly named "The King", this song stands as a symbol of fortitude and resolve. Its potent lyrics coupled with a compelling melody captivate audiences, acting as a musical testament to the endurance of the human spirit.

3. Volver, Volver - Vicente Fernández

A poignant ballad of longing and love, this popular Vicente Fernández song strikes a chord with listeners. Its emotional depth and resonant melody often stir up heartfelt sing-alongs, making it a memorable inclusion for any Mariachi event.

4. La Bikina - Rubén Fuentes

This quintessential Mariachi anthem, "La Bikina", blends an invigorating melody with narrative lyrics. It's a tale of a mysterious woman told through vibrant music, infusing any event with an energetic rhythm that gets feet tapping.

5. Guadalajara - Pepe Guízar

An affectionate tribute to the city of Guadalajara, this song captures the essence of Mexico's beauty and culture. Its passionate lyrics woven with a captivating melody offer an enchanting musical journey into the heart of Mexico.

6. El Son de la Negra - Silvestre Vargas

This spirited instrumental is regarded as a secondary national anthem in Mexico. Its upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm never fail to incite a dance frenzy, truly embodying the exuberant spirit of Mariachi music.

7. Las Mañanitas - Traditional

Celebrated as the Mexican birthday song, "Las Mañanitas" is a delightful tune typically performed to honor a loved one's special day. Its sweet melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a cherished classic in the realm of Mariachi music.

8. Serenata Huasteca - José Alfredo Jiménez

Originating from the Huasteca region of Mexico, this song showcases the romantic facet of Mariachi music. Its endearing lyrics harmonized with a bewitching melody set the stage for a sentimental serenade.

9. Amor Eterno - Juan Gabriel

Considered one of the most beautiful love songs ever penned, "Amor Eterno" is a moving ballad about undying love. Its powerful sentiment leaves a deep impression on listeners, a testament to the emotive potency of Mariachi music.

10. La Malagueña - Elpidio Ramírez and Pedro Galindo

A traditional folk song that stands out for its passionate lyrics and dynamic melody, "La Malagueña" is a test of any Mariachi singer's vocal prowess. Its dramatic flair and intensity bring a compelling edge to any performance, a testament to the versatile range of Mariachi music.

11. Si Nos Dejan - José Alfredo Jiménez

An anthem of unwavering love, "Si Nos Dejan" paints a vibrant picture of a couple determined to love each other against all odds. Its lyrics resonate deeply with anyone who's ever fought for love, and its stirring melody is the essence of mariachi music's passion and vitality.

12. México Lindo y Querido - Chucho Monge

An ode to the beautiful landscapes and proud culture of Mexico, this song has long been embraced as an unofficial anthem of the nation. Its stirring melody and heartfelt lyrics never fail to evoke a sense of pride and belonging among Mexicans, wherever they may be.

13. Besame Mucho - Consuelo Velázquez

An internationally renowned bolero, "Besame Mucho" is a captivating expression of desire and anticipation. It's been covered by countless artists around the world, but mariachi renditions of this passionate song often stand out for their emotional depth and authenticity.

14. Jalisco No Te Rajes - Manuel Esperón

A song dedicated to the Mexican state of Jalisco, the birthplace of mariachi music. It's a piece that conveys pride, love, and admiration for Jalisco's culture and traditions. Its rousing chorus and jubilant energy capture the spirit of this vibrant region.

15. Mi Ciudad - Guadalupe Trigo

This tribute to Mexico City captures the essence of its vast urban landscapes and bustling life. The song evokes a sense of nostalgia and love for the city, whether you're walking its streets or yearning for them from afar.

16. Por Tu Maldito Amor - Vicente Fernández

This heartfelt ballad of lost love and despair showcases the emotional range of mariachi music. Vicente Fernández's powerful vocals, accompanied by the evocative strumming of the vihuela and the soaring melodies of the violin, express the profound pain of love gone wrong.

17. El Mariachi Loco - Pedro Fernández

This song embodies the joyful spirit of mariachi music. Its upbeat tempo and playful lyrics invite everyone to join the dance, promising a good time filled with laughter, energy, and plenty of rhythm.

18. No Volveré - Manuel Esperón

A poignant song about heartbreak and the resolve to move on, "No Volveré" resonates with anyone who's had to mend a broken heart. Its hauntingly beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a timeless addition to any mariachi repertoire.

19. El Sinaloense - Severiano Briseño Chávez

A celebration of the people and culture of Sinaloa, this song is known for its lively pace and invigorating rhythm. Its dynamic melody and joyful lyrics are sure to get your guests on their feet, showcasing the festive spirit of mariachi music.

20. Paloma Querida - José Alfredo Jiménez

This tender love song highlights the romantic and sentimental side of Mariachi music. The song tells a tale of deep affection and longing, its heartfelt lyrics, and enchanting melody creating a touching serenade that's captivated audiences for generations.

Popular Mariachi Cover songs

1. Don't You Want Me

Originally a synth-pop hit by The Human League, "Don't You Want Me" is given a fun and energetic mariachi twist by The Mariachis. Known for their popular performances in the Doritos adverts, their version of this classic 80s song is playful and uplifting.

2. Hotel California - The Eagles (Gipsy Kings version)

The Gipsy Kings breathed new life into this rock classic with their flamenco-infused cover. Although not strictly Mariachi, their rendition evokes similar vibes with its Latin instrumentation.

3. Despacito - Luis Fonsi

The global hit "Despacito" has been covered by various Mariachi bands, adding an extra layer of Latin flair to this already catchy tune.

4. Walking on Sunshine

"Walking on Sunshine", a joyous classic by Katrina and The Waves, takes on a new, vibrant life when reimagined in the mariachi style.

5. Monster

Initially popularised by The Automatic, this song transforms into a lively mariachi track. Featured in the Doritos adverts, it retains the catchy and high-energy spirit of the original while introducing the distinctive and infectious rhythms of mariachi.