Jesus Albino Quintero
Valentín Elizalde
The Rise and Fall of Jesus Albino Quintero
Valentín Elizalde's song "Jesus Albino Quintero" narrates the life story of a man who rose from humble beginnings to become a significant figure in the world of drug trafficking. The song begins by setting the scene in the plains of Aragon, where Jesus Albino Quintero was born to a happy couple. This seemingly ordinary birth would lead to an extraordinary and tumultuous life, as Quintero's name would become infamous across various regions in Mexico, including Sinaloa, Sonora, San Luis, and Mexicali.
As Quintero's influence grew, so did his wealth and notoriety. The lyrics describe his involvement in the cocaine trade and his ability to amass both money and fame. However, with success came envy and conflict. Quintero faced challenges from rival cartels and the media, leading him to leave his initial territory. He then established a stronghold in Veracruz, where he operated with impunity, and in Quintana Roo, where he had the keys to enter without resistance. The song hints at his ruthless nature and the fear he instilled in others, as evidenced by the mention of Villa Nueva.
The final verses of the song highlight the constant threats Quintero faced from law enforcement and rival factions. Despite these dangers, he managed to leave a lasting legacy. The song mentions a General who lost his position for failing to capture Quintero and a Director who ended up in prison but left behind a well-trained successor. The closing lines reflect on Quintero's roots, reminiscing about his old ranch and the house with its tinajera (a large earthenware jar), symbolizing a connection to his past despite his notorious life.