Los Tigres Del Norte Remind the Música Mexicana world who's boss with “Aqui Mando Yo”

Los Tigres Del Norte had one of the most prolific, groundbreaking careers in Música Mexicana. They formed the family band when they were just teenagers in the late 60s, playing in small, rainy bars in Mexicali to earn some money for their families. Eventually, they arrived in the US, where an American border agent gave them their name, telling them they should call themselves “The Little Tigers of the North”.

Since then, Los Tigres have been one of the most revered groups in the Spanish-speaking world — but in case anyone needed a reminder of their longevity and influence on music, they've just released a new anthem titled “Aqui Mando Yo,” which roughly translates to to “Command here.” The bold, hard-hitting song has a proud message they wanted to share with the world: They're the OGs of this genre, and they were here first.

“This song has a personal meaning because it takes a lot of responsibility to know how to drive,” said frontman Jorge Hernandez. Rolling rock. “And it takes a lot of responsibility to lead not just once, but for many years, and to do it with character and strength.”

The song was written by Héctor Guerrero, and the band members say they immediately connected with its message of self-pride. When recording, the group wanted to evoke their history as pioneers, especially at a time when música mexicana is finding global success with younger listeners. “Over the years, this team has worked hard and done a lot to become a name in the industry. And now, with an explosion in local Mexican music, and because this band is one of the pioneers, I think we needed this as a statement for the new generations,” explains instrumentalist and singer Luis Hernández.

The band doesn't just put out “Aqui Mando Yo.” On Thursday night, they held a press conference in New York to share that they're also releasing a new five-track EP, named after the lead single. Additionally, they shared that they will be playing Madison Square Garden for the first time next year on May 24th, another feat for a band used to writing their own history.

Hernan Hernandez says playing such a historic venue in New York has special meaning for the group: They brought their mother to the city decades ago, marking her first time outside the U.S. “There are a lot of fond memories,” he says. “We're also inspired by New York because we always see what a Latino community there is when we come here.”

The new EP is proof that even though Los Tigres have been around for over 50 years, they aren't slowing down anytime soon. Over the past two years, they've continued to score major wins: Their 2022 documentary on Amazon Historias Que Contar earned an Emmy nod last year, making them the first mexicana music group ever to be nominated. “Aqui Mando Yo” is a testament to all the firsts they've achieved as a band, reflecting the powerful energy of their long list of hits, including 1997's chart topper “Jefe de Jefes”.

The lyrics don't just apply to the band. Jorge Hernandez says he sees it as something that can empower anyone and hopes fans will connect with the message. “We think 'Aqui Mando Yo' is an important statement,” he says. “It's like with architects, when you build a building, you have to make sure the foundation is strong so that whatever difficulties arise, that building remains standing. That's how I think about music: When things are well-made, they stand the test of time.”