There is controversy surrounding Peso Pluma’s upcoming performance at the Viña del Mar Festival in Chile. High-profile government officials, sociologists, and public television officials are challenging his headlining slot, claiming that his music promotes narcoculture. Despite these objections, festival organizers are standing by the Mexican singer, citing his international prestige and stating that there are no legal or contractual reasons to revoke his participation.

The board of Televisión Nacional de Chile (TVN), a public television channel involved in managing the festival, has requested the cancellation of Peso Pluma’s participation. However, the festival organizers have confirmed that he will remain in the lineup. Peso Pluma’s inclusion in the festival has sparked public condemnation, with critics, including the president of the Chilean Senate, Juan Antonio Coloma, arguing that it would normalize narcoculture and is unacceptable.

Peso Pluma’s lyrics, particularly those like “A mí me gusta chambear/ Y si la orden es matar/ Esa no se cuestiona” (translated: “I like to work/ And if the order is to kill/ That is not questioned”), make some in Chilean society uncomfortable, especially politicians. Minister of the Interior and Public Security of Chile, Carolina Tohá, has expressed concerns about songs promoting narcoculture and derogatory views towards women.

Despite the controversy, festival organizers emphasize Peso Pluma’s international popularity and point out his confirmation for Coachella, one of the world’s largest festivals. The Viña del Mar Festival is scheduled to take place from Feb. 25 to March 1, with Peso Pluma set to perform on the last day. Some argue that removing him from the lineup deprives the audience of exposure to urban periphery music and the opportunity for essential conversations about these societal issues.