Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
Texas Border Business
October 15, 2025- Mariachi 7 Leguas officially launched its new album Veinte Aniversario during a press event on October 15, 2025, at Lone Star National Bank Corporate Offices in McAllen, Texas. The album marks a major milestone for the Rio Grande Valley–based ensemble, which has spent the last two decades preserving mariachi tradition while inspiring new generations of musicians.
Founded in 2004, Mariachi 7 Leguas began as a small side project for musician and educator Emilio Santos, Jr. “Back in 2004, I came from a bigger group in San Antonio,” Santos recalled. “I couldn’t find a full-time career there, so I returned to the Valley and decided to start a small group—something to keep me entertained and doing what I love.” Within months, the group entered a competition at the Basilica de San Juan and won second place. “That’s when I thought, maybe we can do more than this,” he said.
Over the years, Mariachi 7 Leguas evolved into one of South Texas’s most respected cultural ambassadors. The ensemble has performed with renowned artists such as Vicente Fernández, Pepe Martínez of Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, and, most recently, Los Tigres del Norte. In 2010, the group represented the United States at an international mariachi competition organized by Mexico’s Secretary of Foreign Relations, earning recognition as the best mariachi among 22 participating countries. “That was the most prestigious award we’ve received,” Santos said. “It took us to another level.”
The idea for Veinte Aniversario emerged as the group approached its 20th year. “We knew it was time to do something meaningful,” Santos said. “Everyone has different jobs and careers, but we love what we do. It was difficult to coordinate schedules and find the right arrangements, but we knew this was important.” The album, produced by Nathan Pernandez, Antonio Delgadillo, and Mario Gutierrez, took three years to complete and includes collaborations such as “Las Mariposas” and “Coplas,” the latter featuring an all-female mariachi group.
Santos described the new record as “a mix of tradition and emotion.” It features love songs, sones jalicienses, and pieces that celebrate the charro heritage of Mexico. “For the most part, we kept it very traditional,” he explained. “It’s about honoring our culture, our roots, and the people who’ve supported us for twenty years.”
Beyond music, Mariachi 7 Leguas plays an important role in education and mentorship throughout the Rio Grande Valley. “Most of our members are mariachi teachers,” Santos said. “We tell our students that it’s not only about musicianship, but also about respecting the charro suit, the music, and the meaning behind it.” He added that the group emphasizes professionalism and cultural pride, setting an example for young performers who look up to them.
Reflecting on his journey, Santos said the group’s success lies in perseverance and authenticity. “There were challenges, especially when trying to promote ourselves in a competitive market,” he said. “But we focused on giving back to the community and showing what mariachi music truly represents.”
For Santos, the most rewarding part of performing is sharing energy with audiences. “When we play, there’s a kind of magic that happens,” he said. “The music connects us—it’s something you can’t explain.”
Veinte Aniversario is available on all major streaming platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, and TikTok. Santos hopes the album will not only celebrate two decades of music but also inspire future generations to carry forward the mariachi tradition. “Our dream,” he said, “is to share our music throughout Texas, across the United States, and beyond.”
Follow the link below to listen to the new album on Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/veinte-aniversario/1845054909
