Need a song for a Mariachi? This Mexican folk classic is about as good as it gets. “Allà in el Rancho Grande” has been sung for generations. John and Alan Lomax published the song in their American Ballads and Folk Songs (1934). Even then, John Lomax referred this as an “old” song. It was the inspiration for a 1936 film and then a musical 10 years later.

Below are two great versions of the song:

Jorge Negrete

Born in Guanajato in 1911, Negrete became a famous actor and singer throughout Mexico, Spain and Latin America. Listen to this powerful voice:  

Freddy Fender

Where would Guac and Roll be without Freddy Fender? We are big fans of his and of the Texas Tornadoes. In addition to his vocal performance, we thought this video did a terrific job of showcasing both his hairdo and what looks like it might be a Nudie suit: