Benjamin Arellano
Banda El Rosal
The Rise and Fall of Benjamin Arellano Félix: A Tale of Power and Corruption
The song 'Benjamin Arellano' by Banda El Rosal delves into the life and legacy of Benjamin Arellano Félix, a notorious figure in the world of drug trafficking. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of his rise to power as the head of the Tijuana Cartel, a dominant force in the drug trade during the 1980s and 1990s. The song begins by highlighting his control over key territories such as Tijuana, California, and Arizona, emphasizing the sheer scale of his operations and the difficulty of challenging his authority.
The narrative continues by tracing Benjamin's early involvement in the drug trade, facilitated by figures like Javier Payán and Miguel Félix Gallardo. These connections helped him establish a strong foothold in Tijuana, alongside his brother Ramón Arellano Félix. The song also touches on the turbulent times following the capture of key cartel leaders, which led to territorial disputes and violent confrontations with other notorious figures like Amado Carrillo Fuentes and Joaquín 'El Chapo' Guzmán. This period of conflict underscores the dangerous and volatile nature of the drug trade.
The lyrics further explore the extensive corruption that allowed Benjamin to maintain his power. He managed to corrupt government officials, military personnel, and influential businessmen, creating a vast network of cooperation and complicity. The song details the immense wealth generated by his operations, with millions of dollars being distributed monthly. Despite his eventual capture in Puebla, the song portrays Benjamin Arellano Félix as a man who commanded respect and wielded significant influence within the criminal underworld. His story serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive impact of drug cartels on society and the lengths to which individuals will go to secure power and wealth.