The Ultimate Cinco de Mayo Playlist: Juan Gabriel, Selena, Maná, and More
Every year, we celebrate Cinco De Mayo by curating an amazing playlist for our readers.
For 2022, Billboard went all out, bringing together the best songs from our playlists through the years, including patriotic songs, party songs, rock, mariachi, pop and banda.
Many people think that this day is all about having fun and good food. However, it commemorates the unlikely victory of the Mexican army over the French forces at Battle of Puebla on May 5. 1862. And while Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence (that’s celebrated on Sept. 16), here in the U.S. it’s celebrated with as much — or more — impetus, even during a lockdown.
So, grab your favorite mezcal or tequila and get ready for a party!
1. “Cielito Lindo” — Mariachi Vargas
It is impossible to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with out “Cielito Lino”. There are many versions, but Mariachi Vargas is the best.
2. “El Ultimo Adios” — Paulina Rubio
There is no better way to drown your sorrows and heartache than with tequila, mariachis, Paulina style. (meaning, the mariachis don’t wear shirts — only she can do that).
3. “El Noa Noa” — Juan Gabriel
Juan Gabriel’s party anthem will get everyone moving on the dance floor.
4. “Amor a la Mexicana” — Thalia
Sultry pop cumbia celebrating love, Mexican-style with “Horse and boot, hats, tequila tabacco and Rum .”
5. “Parrandera, Rebelde y Atrevida” — Jenni Rivera
Our late banda queen with her song that defined her as a party girl.
6. “El Rey” — Vicente Fernandez
The ultimate mariachi song performed by the greatest mariachi singer.
7. “Clavado en un Bar” — Mana
A little bit of reggae and an island feel as the quartet “drinks Tequila to forget” while they “drown in a bar.
8. “Mexico Lindo” — Alejandro Fernandez
Alejandro Fernandez adds his unique voice and sound to the mariachi tradition. It is a joy to listen.
9. “Mexico en la Piel” — Luis Miguel
It is full of Mexican pride! “A good tequila, that’s how Mexico feels in your skin.” Viva Mexico
10. “Botella Tras Botella” — Gera MX & Christian Nodal
The song, which combines both their genres, was produced by Erick Gutierrez Cevantes and Edgar Barrera. It features acoustic Mexican melodies mixed with hip-hop undertones.
11. “Botellita de Tequila” — Pepe Aguilar
Tequila shot, anyone?
12. “Mi Ranchito” — Roberto Tapia
This ranchera song will make it feel like you’re in Mexico.
13. “Jefe de Jefes” — Los Tigres del Norte
Leave It to Los Tigres del Norte to make everyone feel like a boss (jefe) on the dance floor.
14. “La Bamba” — Ritchie Valens
We salute our first Mexican American popstar.
15. “Amor Prohibido” — Selena
No. You can’t celebrate 5 de Mayo with out going to Selena. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.
16. “Viva Mexico” — Lucero
Lucero re-visits this classic Mexican song by Pedro Galindo. The opening lyrics describe a person who is 100% Mexican and proud to have been born in this beautiful land.
17. “La Venia Bendita” — Marco Antonio Solis
A Marco Antonio Solis song reminds us that love is real and can be enjoyed at any party.
18. “Hasta la Raiz” — Natalia Lafourcade
Lafourcade’s beautiful take on her Mexican roots offers a little bit of lovely reflection.
19. “Quedate Con Ella” — Natalia Jimenez
The fiery Natalia Jimenez pays homage to Mexico every day. We’ve included “Quedate”, a Mexican song, on our 5 de Mayo playlists. It’s a fun way to send the guy packing.
20. “Tragos Amargos” — Ramon Ayala
Because real Mexican parties always end with Ramon Ayala’s “Tragos Amargos !”
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