Discover the life, music, and untimely passing of Ernesto Barajas, the lead vocalist of Enigma Norteño. Explore his contributions to regional Mexican music and his impact on the industry.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Ernesto Barajas was born in Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico. He founded the regional Mexican band Enigma Norteño in 2004, serving as the lead vocalist and bassist. The band quickly gained popularity with their debut album, El Jardinero, which was released independently and marked their entry into the music scene. By 2008, Barajas and his bandmates had expanded their lineup and signed with Discos Sol, further solidifying their presence in the industry
Rise to Fame
Enigma Norteño’s music, characterized by its norteño and narcocorrido styles, resonated with audiences both in Mexico and the United States. The band’s success was propelled by hits like “El Deportivo,” “Los Lujos del R,” and “El Guero Bastidas.” Their unique sound and storytelling approach garnered them a dedicated fan base and widespread recognition
Puntos de Vista Podcast
Beyond his musical endeavors, Barajas was also the host of the podcast Puntos de Vista. The podcast featured interviews with various personalities from the music and entertainment industry, providing insights into their lives and careers. One of the most viewed episodes included an interview with Jesús Ortiz-Paz, which garnered over 2 million views
Threats and Controversies
Throughout his career, Barajas faced challenges due to the nature of his music. In 2023, he received threats from the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) via a narcomanta, leading to the cancellation of a scheduled performance in Baja California. The message warned him to cease performing certain songs, highlighting the risks associated with the narcocorrido genre
Untimely Passing
Tragically, Ernesto Barajas was fatally shot on August 19, 2025, in Zapopan, Jalisco. He was 38 years old. The attack occurred when two individuals on a motorcycle approached his vehicle and opened fire. Barajas was accompanied by a woman at the time; she survived the incident, while he succumbed to his injuries.
Legacy and Impact
Ernesto Barajas’s contributions to regional Mexican music, particularly the narcocorrido genre, have left an indelible mark on the industry. His storytelling, musical talent, and entrepreneurial spirit continue to inspire artists and fans alike. Despite the controversies surrounding his music, his legacy endures through his recordings, performances, and the stories he told through song.
For more insights into Ernesto Barajas’s life and music, you can explore his podcast and music on various platforms:
Puntos de Vista Podcast
Ernesto Barajas on TikTok
Ernesto Barajas on Shazam