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Chalino Sánchez

Chalino Sánchez was a Mexican singer and composer known for corridos and narcocorridos.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Chalino Sánchez (born Rosalino Sánchez Félix; 30 August 1960 – 16 May 1992) was a Mexican singer and composer known for corridos and narcocorridos. He became one of the most influential figures in the genre and was posthumously called “El Rey del Corrido” (“The King of Corrido”).

Early life

Chalino Sánchez was born Rosalino Sánchez Félix on 30 August 1960 in Sinaloa, Mexico. His early life is often discussed alongside his music career.

Music career

Sánchez recorded and performed corridos, including narcocorridos, and was associated with regional Mexican music. His songs reflected themes of violence, hardship, and rural or criminal life. He is often described as a major influence on the genre in the late 20th century.

Death and legacy

Sánchez died on 16 May 1992 in Culiacán, Sinaloa. After his death, he was posthumously known as “El Rey del Corrido” and is widely cited as a key figure in Mexican music history.

Key facts

  • Chalino Sánchez was a Mexican singer and composer known for corridos and narcocorridos.
  • He was posthumously called 'El Rey del Corrido'.
  • He died in 1992 in Culiacán, Sinaloa.
  • He is considered one of the most influential narcocorrido singers of the late 20th century.
  • His birth name was Rosalino Sánchez Félix.
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Canadian context

Chalino Sánchez is relevant to Canadian readers through the broader North American popularity of regional Mexican music and the Mexican diaspora in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

Who was Chalino Sánchez?
He was a Mexican singer and composer best known for corridos and narcocorridos, and is regarded as one of the genre’s most influential figures.
What was Chalino Sánchez’s real name?
His birth name was Rosalino Sánchez Félix.
What genre is Chalino Sánchez associated with?
He is associated mainly with corrido, narcocorrido, ranchera, and regional Mexican music.
Why was he called “El Rey del Corrido”?
The nickname means “The King of Corrido” and was given to him posthumously because of his strong influence on the genre.
When did Chalino Sánchez die?
He died on 16 May 1992 in Culiacán, Sinaloa.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chalino_S%C3%A1nchez
    Supports: Birth name, birth and death dates, nationality, occupation, and posthumous nickname.
  2. Wikipedia (Spanish) — https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chalino_S%C3%A1nchez
    Supports: Genres, birthplace, death place, and corrido/ranchera/regional Mexican classification.
  3. El País — https://english.elpais.com/culture/2023-05-07/the-second-life-of-chalino-sanchez-the-king-of-corrido.html
    Supports: Death in Culiacán and biographical context about his life and legacy.
  4. AllMusic — https://www.allmusic.com/artist/chalino-s%C3%A1nchez-mn0000637320
    Supports: Music career overview and influence.