Pepe Aguilar
Pepe Aguilar is a monumental figure in the Latin music scene, known for his innovative fusion of traditional Mexican music with contemporary elements. As the son of iconic Mexican artists Antonio Aguilar and Flor Silvestre, and the father of rising star Ángela Aguilar, Pepe continues a family legacy that deeply resonates within Mexican and broader Latin American culture. One of the most popular and iconic Mexican figures in the US across all generations, his upbringing in Zacatecas and early exposure to the music industry through his parents shaped his multifaceted career.
Recognized by Variety as "The man who reinvented ranchera," Aguilar has brought traditional Mexican music to a global audience by blending it with contemporary sounds. He has sold over 15 million records worldwide, has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and was the first Mexican artist to have an exhibit at the Grammy Museum. Aguilar has won four Grammy Awards and five Latin Grammy Awards.
His "Jaripeo Hasta Los Huesos 2024" tour is a new version of the widely popular "Jaripeo Sin Fronteras" tour, combining traditional Mexican rodeo, music, and equestrian acts with Cirque du Soleil-style performances. The tour, which reunites his children Leonardo and Ángela Aguilar, as well as his brother Antonio Aguilar Jr., kicked off on March 29th in Anaheim and features a Day of the Dead theme, offering an immersive experience into Mexican traditions. He continues to fill arenas across the US and Latin America with solo tours, showcasing his enduring popularity and ability to captivate audiences.
Popular releases include "Prometiste" (MTV Unplugged) with 588 million views on YouTube, "Tu Sangre En Mi Cuerpo" with 66 million views on YouTube, and "Por Mujeres Como Tú" with 254 million views on YouTube. His latest single, "Hasta Que Me Duermo," was released in March, featured on the cover of the "Nueva Música Mexicana" playlist on Spotify, and is part of his upcoming album "Que Llueva Tequila," set to release on May 24, 2024.
During his interview for the cover of WIRED en Español, Pepe Aguilar expressed his optimism about the opportunities artificial intelligence (AI) offers for his music and message: "La IA no me intimida. Veo con optimismo las oportunidades que ofrece para mi música y mi mensaje." He has used AI in creating album covers, videos, and even in the production process, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to blending tradition with modern technology. Pepe highlights the importance of regulating AI in music to prevent misuse and ensure the integrity of creative work.
The press has praised Pepe Aguilar extensively. Rolling Stone noted his successful continuation of his family's legacy, Billboard highlighted his unique ability to turn singing on horseback into arena gold, and the LA Times shared personal stories of lifelong listeners of the Aguilar family's music.