Part of the romance of Mariachi music is the feeling it evokes that all things are possible. The humor, the spirit and even the bittersweet inspire us to engage with a world where we live out our dreams.
In that same way, much of the excitement of José Hernández is that all things Mariachi are possible.
While his family tree is rooted in five generations of Mariachi musicians that hail from La Sierra del Tigre region of Jalisco, Hernández built on that foundation to grow mariachi music in new territories, musical genres and in the hearts of new audiences.
Unrivaled and uninhibited, the impact of Hernández and his Mariachi Sol de México on mariachi and all music is undeniable. After forming Mariachi Sol de México in 1981, Hernández’s charismatic arrangements and first-class musical direction led the group to instant and lasting success; playing in sold out halls from Madison Square Garden to Beijing, China and Pyongyang, North Korea.
Known as the world’s premier Mariachi group, they gained the attention of the White House and have been invited to play for 5 US Presidents.
From the beginning, Mariachi Sol de México de José Hernández made their mark through innovation and fusion of different styles of music.
Their ability to blend genres seamlessly is evidenced in their cohesive collaboration with symphonies throughout the United States. Maestro Hernández’s classical arrangements have led to them sharing the stage with symphony orchestras such as the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Santa Rosa Symphony, San Francisco Symphony and Jalisco Symphony.
This magic was captured in their 25th anniversary symphonic album, which led to the first ever Mariachi Symphony Grammy nomination!
Indeed, the theatrical aspect of Sol de México’s performances has been an attraction to Hollywood for soundtracks, where they have provided music since the 1980’s. Their work can be heard in films such as Rango, Glory Road, Sea Biscuit, Don Juan de Marco, and many more.
The versatility of Sol de México to expand to new audiences has led to fabulous, unexpected collaborations, such as with the Beach Boys and Willie Nelson.
Within the world of Latin music, Sol de México has played alongside stars such as Vicente Fernández, Selena, Jose Feliciano and a record-breaking concert tour with Luis Miguel.
Hernández has now been nominated for a total of fourteen Grammy awards both Latin and American, between both of his groups. He has also been nominated and recognized as producer by the academy.
But more than awards and credits, it is the passion and love of the mariachi tradition that Mariachi Sol de México upholds. When they are not playing for heads of state or global audiences, they can be seen locally equipping a younger generation of musicians through the Mariachi Heritage Society. ¡Que Viva El Mariachi!