Los Tucanes de Tijuana’s ‘La Chona’ Will Shine at the Fortnite Festival
Beginning Friday, players of the popular video game “Fortnite” can enjoy the lively rhythms of Los Tucanes de Tijuana’s iconic hit, “La Chona,” as it joins the “Fortnite Festival” lineup. This 1995 song has gained international recognition, resonating on various social media platforms and reflecting an increasing visibility of Latino culture.
The infectious melody and playful spirit of “La Chona” have captivated audiences both within and outside the Latino community. Notably, the song has even inspired a live cover by Metallica during a 2024 show in Mexico City.
“Fortnite Festival,” a spin-off from the renowned survival and battle royale game, incorporates elements from rhythm games like “Guitar Hero” and “Rock Band.” Players must hit notes in time to successfully perform songs as part of a virtual band.
Los Tucanes de Tijuana have long been a key figure in the música Mexicana scene across the U.S.-Mexico border. In 2019, they made history as the first norteño band to perform at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and have headlined major events at Dodger Stadium, New York’s Central Park, and Zócalo Plaza in Mexico City.
The band’s notoriety includes a 2010 incident that resulted in a ban on their performances in Tijuana. During a concert, lead singer Mario Quintero Lara referenced local drug figures “El Teo” and “El Muletas,” prompting outrage from local authorities. “El Teo” is Teodoro Garcia Simental, a drug cartel leader captured in 2012, while “El Muletas” refers to Raydel Lopez Uriarte, apprehended in 2010. The latter nickname emerged from the aftermath of his violent acts.
Julian Leyzaola, then Tijuana’s police chief, criticized the band’s songs, claiming they glorified drug lords and were unsuitable for a city troubled by drug-related violence.
“La Chona” is one of several new songs featured in the 11th season of “Fortnite Festival,” which diverges from previous seasons by showcasing multiple artists. Other notable musicians in this season include Jennie from Blackpink, Doja Cat, Elton John, and Olivia Rodrigo. Previous seasons highlighted talents such as Billie Eilish and Lady Gaga.
The “Fortnite” franchise first ventured into music in 2019 with a virtual concert by DJ Marshmello, attended by an estimated 10.7 million players. The COVID-19 pandemic allowed the Fortnite platform to serve as a vital connection for artists and audiences, with Travis Scott performing for over 12.3 million players in April 2020 and Ariana Grande hosting a concert in August 2021. Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Juice Wrld, and Ice Spice have also performed within the “Fortnite” universe.
