“It Represents a Rebirth”: Mario Bautista on New Música Mexicana Album “Fénix”

Mario Bautista has released his new studio album Phoenix — one that he began working on nearly two years ago and added his final touches just hours before its release on Thursday (June 13).

Featuring 14 tracks, the set showcases Bautista's evolution from the boy-next-door pop star to a mature young adult who embraces life to the fullest. It also marks his new Música Mexicana time.

“I made this album because of the success I had with 'Brindo' because it was like the light at the end of the tunnel,” he says. Advertising sign during an Instagram Live interview. “It was very revealing to be able to convey a message through peripherals [Mexican] MUSIC. I fell in love with it because I didn't think it was possible. Up until that point, I had only created music to party and have fun. When 'Brindo' was born, I felt like I was planting something positive in the listeners' heads and that's my life's purpose.”

“Brindo”—a mariachi with positive lyrics about being thankful for everyone and everything around you—was released in fall 2021, but it was Banda El Recodo de Cruz de Lizárrga's remix that gave Bautista his first No. 1 on the Regional Mexican Airplay Chart in 2022.

“So Phoenix was born — it is fully regional Mexican and conveys messages that I believe are very important for humanity to hear,” he adds.

In addition to strong tunes such as “Cábron Yo Puedo” and “Mejor Así”, in collaboration with Adriel Favela, Bautista dedicates heartfelt songs to his loved ones (“Flores” and “Pa'l Viejo”) and even pieces for independent women (“15 de Septiembre” and “Mujer Maravilla”).

But Phoenix goes far beyond just upbeat lyrics and a tribute to his Mexican roots. It represents an awakening.

“Eleven years have passed in my career and it's been a crazy ride,” he explains. “With 'Baby Girl' (the urban-pop song that put him on the map in 2018), I felt like it was my peak, but at the same time, it was the time when I got confused the most and lost my personality. It took me years to get back to Mario Alberto (his real name) and give him the wheel. Today, this brings me joy and peace, and 'Fénix' represents this new stage, this rebirth.”

I hear Phoenix below.