Corrido a Mazatlan
José Alfredo Jiménez
A Serenade to the Pearl of the Pacific
The song "Corrido a Mazatlan" by José Alfredo Jiménez is a heartfelt tribute to the city of Mazatlan, located on the Pacific coast of Mexico. Known as the 'Pearl of the Pacific,' Mazatlan is celebrated in this song for its natural beauty, its people, and its culture. The lyrics express the singer's admiration for the city, even though he is not a native, highlighting the universal appeal and welcoming nature of Mazatlan.
José Alfredo Jiménez, a prolific Mexican singer-songwriter, is known for his significant contributions to the ranchera music genre. His songs often reflect themes of love, patriotism, and pride in one's roots. In "Corrido a Mazatlan," Jiménez uses the traditional Mexican corrido form—a narrative ballad—to convey his message. The corrido historically tells a story or pays homage, and in this case, it is used to praise the city's landmarks, such as the Paseo del Centenario and the cathedral, as well as the spirit of its inhabitants.
The song's lyrics also touch on the character of the people of Mazatlan, describing the women as beautiful and the men as noble and true friends. The repeated lines about feeling like a millionaire and living life without tears in Mazatlan evoke a sense of contentment and joy that the city offers to both its residents and visitors. Overall, the song is a celebration of the city's charm and the pride of belonging to such a place, encapsulated in the melody of a traditional Mexican corrido.