Norteno

Norteno is what they call Tex-Mex south of the border. Norteno songs, or "corridos," are named for the ballads about 19th century battles between the U.S. and Mexico. The music's origins are as mongrel as can be: mazurkas, waltzes and even a central European dance called the schottische all contributed to its distinctive sound. With the addition of the accordion (and polka influences), modern Norteno was born; today it's marked by nasal singing, accordion flourishes and streetwise lyrics that celebrate the deeds of the little guy: petty criminals, down-and-outers, people fighting the ubiquitous "system." Unlike most regional styles, Norteno is popular throughout Mexico.