Mariachi Singer Deyra Barrera Joins Forces with Kendrick Lamar on New Album
From the vibrant streets of Los Angeles to the iconic sounds of Dodger Stadium, Deyra Barrera’s journey as a mariachi singer has reached a new pinnacle. The 49-year-old artist has lent her powerful vocals to Kendrick Lamar’s latest album, “GNX,” bringing a unique blend of Mexican tradition to the world of hip-hop.
A Dream Takes Flight at Dodger Stadium
Lamar’s path crossed with Barrera’s during Game 1 of the World Series at Dodger Stadium. Barrera was performing a poignant tribute to the late Dodgers pitcher Fernando Valenzuela, captivating the crowd with her heartfelt rendition. “He is one of my angels. My friend,” Barrera shared, reflecting on the experience.
For Barrera, taking the stage has always been a lifelong dream. “Since I was a kid, I was dreaming that,” she said, her voice brimming with passion.
A Journey From Sonora to Los Angeles
Barrera’s musical journey began in Sonora, Mexico. When she was 18, she moved to Los Angeles with her family, seeking new opportunities and embracing a city pulsing with diverse cultures.
“My mom, my sister and I were singing every month to get money, pay rent, eat,” Barrera explained. Music became a lifeline, a way to express their heritage and connect with others.
A National Stage Awaits
Barrera’s collaboration with Lamar has catapulted her onto the national stage. “It was a dream to do something bigger, and this is something. The biggest thing I have ever had in my life,” she said, her voice filled with awe.
This unlikely pairing marks a powerful fusion of musical genres. “When Kendrick Lamar releases music, it’s always an expectation to see how he’s going to pay homage to Compton – to Southern California where he’s from. Seeing somebody like this, like Deyra Barrera, who’s a Mariachi singer and part of the Mexican community, really shows how important the Mexican community is for Kendrick and for Southern California at large as well,” said Tomás Mier, Rolling Stone Staff Writer.
A Dream Come True
For Barrera, collaborating with Lamar is a dream come true. “I can only hope this collaboration inspires others to embrace their cultural narratives. Thank you for being a trailblazer. I am forever grateful for our collaboration and the magic we have created today,” Barrera stated in an online message expressing her heartfelt gratitude to Lamar.
How did Deyra Barrera’s collaboration with Kendrick Lamar come about?
## Interview with Mariachi Singer Deyra Barrera
**Host:** Welcome back to the show, everyone! Today we have a very special guest, Ms. Deyra Barrera – a mariachi singer who’s making waves not only in the world of traditional music but also in hip-hop. Deyra, welcome to the show!
**Deyra:** Thank you so much for having me. It’s an honor to be here.
**Host:** Let’s talk about this incredible collaboration with Kendrick Lamar on his new album “GNX.” How did this amazing opportunity come about?
**Deyra:** It all started at Dodger Stadium during Game 1 of the World Series. [[1](https://www.msn.com/en-us/music/news/how-kendrick-lamar-enlisted-mariachi-singer-deyra-barrera-for-gnx-everything-he-makes-is-magic/ar-AA1uKbzA)]I was performing a tribute to Fernando Valenzuela, a true angel and friend, and Kendrick was in the audience. He was so moved by the performance, and we connected afterwards.
**Host:** What was it like working with Kendrick Lamar?
**Deyra:** Kendrick is an incredible artist and a true visionary. He’s so passionate about his music and it was inspiring to see his creative process. He really respected my traditions and let me bring my authentic voice to the song.
**Host:** You’ve been singing mariachi since you were young. What does it mean to you to now be bridging the gap between these two very different musical worlds?
**Deyra:** It’s an incredible honor to share my culture and music with a wider audience. Music is a universal language, and I believe that it has the power to bring people together. I hope that my work with Kendrick inspires others to explore different genres and appreciate the beauty of diverse musical traditions.
**Host:** What message would you like to share with aspiring mariachi singers out there?
**Deyra:** Never give up on your dreams. Since I was a little girl, performing has been my passion, and now I’m living proof that with hard work and dedication anything is possible.
**Host:** Deyra Barrera, thank you so much for sharing your story with us. It’s truly inspiring. We wish you continued success!
