El otro México
Los Tigres del Norte
The Struggle and Pride of 'El otro México'
The song 'El otro México' by Los Tigres del Norte, a renowned norteño band known for their corridos that often tell stories of social issues, immigration, and the lives of ordinary people, delves into the experiences of Mexican immigrants in the United States. The lyrics express the singer's defense against criticism for living 'on the other side'—a reference to the United States—and emphasize that the move was made out of necessity, not a lack of patriotism or a desire to abandon their roots.
The song highlights the hard work and contributions of Mexican immigrants, who maintain their customs and identity despite living in a foreign land. It acknowledges the reality that many highly skilled professionals, such as doctors and engineers, have crossed the border seeking better opportunities, a fact that contrasts with the stereotype of immigrants only taking low-skilled jobs. The narrative also points out the irony that while the wealthy can easily travel and hide their wealth abroad, the working-class immigrants send their hard-earned money back to support their families in Mexico.
'El otro México' is a tribute to the resilience and success of Mexican and Latin American immigrants who have built a life in the United States. It's a reminder of the historical ties between the two nations and the ongoing contributions of immigrants to the country's development. The song serves as a voice for the immigrant community, celebrating their achievements while also critiquing the social and economic disparities that compel people to leave their homeland.