Norteño music (literally meaning "music of the north") is a traditional and popular music style that developed in the northern regions of Mexico—especially in states like Nuevo León, Coahuila, Tamaulipas, and Chihuahua—and later extended into Mexican-American communities across the U.S. Southwest. It is sometimes called "música norteña" and is closely tied to rural life, working-class realities, migration experiences, and community celebrations.

A classic norteño ensemble features the accordion and bajo sexto (a 12-string bass rhythm guitar), supported by bass (either electric or upright, traditionally the tololoche) and drums. The accordion, now a signature of the genre, was introduced by German, Polish, and Czech immigrants in the 19th century, alongside polka, waltz, and redova rhythms that norteño musicians adapted into their own traditions. The resulting musical style is lively and danceable, often built around polkas, waltzes, redovas, and especially corridos—story-songs that narrate real-life events and emotions.

In modern times, norteño music continues to evolve, blending with elements of rock, country, and cumbia, yet maintaining its unmistakable core. It remains a musical language of identity, resilience, humor, and memory, particularly for migrant and farmworker communities who find in norteño a reflection of their own histories and hopes.

In the San Joaquin Valley, norteño remains a vital tradition, being performed at weddings, quinceañeras, community gatherings, and family celebrations. Musicians here honor "norteño original"—emphasizing traditional melodies, lyrics, and rhythms—while younger players explore how to blend older sounds with newer influences.  

This story page highlights the work of Jesús Vidaña and his group Los Galleros, alongside Roberto Delgado and Roberto Jr. Delgado, who preserve and perform the traditional norteño sound across cities like Farmersville and Wasco.

It also features Las Damas del Valle—Sofia Plummer, Saira Aldaco, and Yadira Lucatero—a groundbreaking all-women norteño band who are reshaping the regional music scene. As young women playing accordion, bajo sexto, and guitar, Las Damas del Valle bring new energy and visibility to norteño music, inspiring younger generations and expanding the boundaries of who participates in this powerful cultural tradition.