MEXICO CITY — Last year, renowned Mexican American artist Becky G debuted her first album focused on regional Mexican music titled “Esquinas.” Her latest work, “Encuentros,” showcases her commitment to deeply exploring this genre while seamlessly integrating modern musical elements.
In a recent video interview from Los Angeles prior to the album’s release, Becky G discussed possible perceptions surrounding her new musical direction. “It’s easy for people to think I’m just following a trend,” she conveyed in Spanish. “However, the journey of creating ‘Esquinas’ led me to discover something authentic and heartfelt. This process became an obsession for me, and I wanted to continue it.”
Becky G noted that her audience often observes a distinct quality in her voice when she performs regional Mexican songs. Fans can discern Rebbeca, which is her birth name, alongside her true essence, contrasting her more familiar pop persona.
The album opens with “XLAS NUBES” or “By the Clouds,” recognized for its captivating acoustic guitar arrangements. According to Becky G, the song drew inspiration from the vivid imagery of someone drifting through the clouds, creating a dreamlike experience.
“Each track weaves a narrative that guides you along an adventure,” she explained. “We aimed to blend instruments from various styles, along with a production technique that gives my voice a contemporary edge, which was incredibly enjoyable for me.”
Produced by Adrián Pieragostino, “Encuentros” fuses traditional ranchera, mariachi, and contemporary corridos with influences from genres such as bolero, cumbia, and Colombian vallenato. “In my past music, whether it was pop or reggaeton, mixing genres was always a part of the process. So, I thought, why not approach regional music with that same philosophy?” she shared.
The album also features traditional elements, particularly in the ranchera track “Desierto” or “Desert,” where she expresses a longing for an ex to suffer in a desolate setting. She mentioned her siblings’ support for this song and their encouragement for her to include it in her concerts.
“This song reminds me of my childhood music, the melodies my grandmother and mother cherished,” she said, referring to the track as “cortavena,” which describes the deeply emotional essence found within regional Mexican music.
In “Todo” or “All,” Becky G collaborates with emerging artist Delilah. “We aimed for a vibe akin to singing beside someone close,” she said. “This song is grand yet intimate, presenting a challenging balance, but I believe we succeeded as it carries a Disney-like feel. Delilah’s voice is magical with mine.”
The album concept began with “Mercedes,” featuring Oscar Maydon, where Becky G showcases her talent against a backdrop of regional instrumentation. She sees it as an ideal track for car rides, hence its title referencing Mercedes Benz.
On the visual front, Becky G sought to ensure that her music videos and album art convey a storyline representative of her Los Angeles roots. “I want viewers worldwide, even from places like London, to recognize and understand who Becky G is,” she explained. This perspective is also captured in the album cover, where she poses in the sunlight with LA’s skyline behind her.
Becky G is already contemplating her next project’s theme and title, hinting at the possibility of another album starting with the letter “E.” “I’m not ready to halt this journey; this is my passion,” she asserted. “The opportunities to continue learning through my art and representing our stories while exploring my identity as a woman is a beautiful experience.”
Currently, Becky G is on tour across the U.S., where she performs tracks from “Encuentros” alongside songs from “Esquinas” and her earlier pop and reggaeton collections. “I like to say my shows reflect my taste in tacos,” she remarked, “with a little bit of everything.”
