Música Mexicana Star Natanael Cano & Label Head face Consequences in Cartel Money Laundering case
The world of música mexicana is grappling with a notable legal outcome. Natanael Cano, the genre’s rising star known for hits like “El Drip” and “A Conquistarla,” recently received a three-year sentence for violating U.S. sanctions. this case, tho, extends far beyond the artist, revealing a complex web of connections between the music industry and alleged cartel activity.
Here’s a breakdown of the situation, the key players involved, and what it means for the future of música Mexicana.
The Core of the Case: Del Records & Jesús Pérez Alvear
The legal trouble stems from Cano’s association with Del Records and its CEO, Álvaro Del Villar. Federal investigations, dating back to 2022, accused Del Villar and his company of conducting business with Jesús Pérez Alvear, a Guadalajara-based promoter known as “Chucho.”
The U.S. Treasury Department had already sanctioned Pérez Alvear, alleging he laundered money for the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG) – a powerful and violent drug trafficking organization – and its affiliate, Los Cuinis. Essentially, authorities believe Del Records knowingly profited from events organized using illicit funds.
The FBI Warning & The Aguascalientes Concert
The situation became notably problematic when the FBI directly warned Cano in April 2018. An agent informed the singer of Pérez Alvear’s alleged ties to criminal organizations and explicitly prohibited him from future business dealings with the promoter.
Despite this warning, Cano performed at the Feria de San marcos in Aguascalientes, Mexico, on april 28, 2018 – an event organized by Pérez Alvear. Crucially, Del Villar’s credit card was used to pay for Cano’s flight, demonstrating a clear continuation of the business relationship.
Cano, following his sentencing, acknowledged the performance, stating, ”We were there singing at that event…it was impractical to say no.” However, he maintained his innocence, claiming “a lot of things have been said” that weren’t true.
Del Villar’s Role & The Pursuit of Profit
Prosecutors argue that Del villar actively encouraged Cano to disregard the FBI’s warning. They allege he saw a financial chance in continuing to work with Pérez Alvear, arranging multiple concerts for Cano across Mexico in 2018 and 2019.
Pérez Alvear continued promoting concerts for Del Entertainment until March 2019. Tragically, he was murdered in a mexico City restaurant in December 2024, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
A History of Conflict & Investigation
This isn’t the first time Cano and Del Villar have been embroiled in controversy. Prior to this case, Del Records and Cano were locked in a legal battle, accusing each other of fraud and misconduct.
In 2019, Cano faced arrest in Mexico for “criminal exaltation” after a music video depicted violence linked to drug cartels. Adding to the intrigue, when the FBI raided del Records’ offices in 2020, a spokesperson claimed agents were solely seeking records related to Cano.
What Dose This Mean for Música Mexicana?
This case raises serious questions about the potential for criminal influence within the música Mexicana industry. It highlights the need for artists and labels to:
* Conduct thorough due diligence: Understand who you are doing business with and the source of their funds.
* heed warnings from law enforcement: Ignoring official cautions can have severe consequences.
* Prioritize ethical business practices: Profit should never come at the expense of legal and moral obligations.
The outcome of this case serves as a stark reminder that the entertainment industry isn’t immune to the reach of criminal organizations. It’s a wake-up call for the música Mexicana community to prioritize openness and accountability to protect its integrity and future.
Disclaimer: I am an AI chatbot and cannot provide legal advice. This article is for informational purposes only.
Sources:
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