The U.S. isn’t just humming a different tune—it’s pulling the plug altogether.
In the latest move that proves Washington isn’t bluffing, the U.S. has started revoking visas from Mexican artists linked to narcocorridos—that musical genre that glorifies cartel life, luxury SUVs, and the occasional gold-plated rifle.
It’s not just talk anymore. And this time, the consequences are real.
When Music Gets You Banned
Let’s start with Julión Álvarez. The popular singer had to cancel a concert in Arlington, Texas, after his visa was revoked—again. Yes, again. You might remember he was sanctioned back in 2017, later cleared in 2022. But now he’s back on the no-fly list.

Then there’s the band Los Alegres del Barranco, whose visa got the axe after projecting a giant image of a cartel boss during a concert in Guadalajara. The message? Not so subtle.
Washington didn’t like it. And neither did CBP.
This is more than a cultural disagreement. It’s a policy shift.
The Law Is on Their Side
Here’s the kicker: the U.S. doesn’t need a criminal conviction to cancel your visa. Thanks to Section 221(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, all it takes is “reasonable suspicion” of ties—direct or indirect—to criminal activity. No trial. No appeal.
So far, this legal backdoor has been used not only against musicians, but also against politicians.
Yes, even governors.
Politicians, You’re Not Off the Hook
As we reported in our article “The Diplomatic Mystery: U.S. Revoking Visas of Mexican Politicians”, high-level officials—including Baja’s own Marina del Pilar—have reportedly lost their U.S. travel privileges.
And while some deny it, others call it a smear campaign. But words are cheap. Visa revocations? Not so much.
As we said before in “No Entry for Narco-Cheerleaders”, the message is loud and clear: if your brand benefits from glorifying crime, expect your access to Disneyland and outlet malls to disappear.
Why It Matters
This isn’t about censorship. It’s about signal control.
The U.S. has decided it won’t tolerate public figures—musical or political—who promote or profit from organized crime imagery. It’s not about your playlist. It’s about your passport.
And here in Baja, where cross-border culture runs deep and artists tour constantly, this isn’t just news—it’s a warning.
What’s Next?
The growing list of visa cancellations is making headlines, but the real story is the pattern. U.S. policy is shifting from speeches to visible, targeted actions. The consequences aren’t symbolic. They’re logistical. No plane ticket. No tour. No Las Vegas residency.
And unless artists and politicians shift their messaging, that list will likely grow.
Bottom Line?
Freedom of speech? Sure.
Freedom to enter the U.S.? That’s a different border.
📰 Related Reads:
📌 The Diplomatic Mystery: Visa Revokes and Mexican Politicians
📌 No Entry for Narco-Cheerleaders
Do you think this will actually change the tone of the music? Or will it just push the party deeper underground?
Let us know what you think—before your visa gets revoked.