by Ursula Rogers
The vibrant spirit of Mexican music descended upon the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, as the renowned Besame Mucho Festival made its debut outside Los Angeles. Drawing music lovers from Houston, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and even Mexico, the festival displayed over 80 bands across four distinct stages, each dedicated to a specific genre: Tu Gusta El Pop? Las Classicas, Rockero, and Beso (Banda). The inaugural lineup included Los Tigres del Norte, Banda MS, Grupo Frontera, Caifanes, Bronco, Gloria Trevi, Café Tacvba, Alejandra Guzman, Tucanes de Tijuana, Belanova, Juanes, La Ley and many more.
The atmosphere resonated with shared memories as attendees sang along to songs their parents and grandparents cherished from the likes of Ramon Ayala and Los Tigres Del Norte. The lineup, ranging from Kumbia Kings to Elephante, Caifanes, and Juanes, offered a musical journey across generations. Besame Mucho Festival wasn’t just a treat for the ears; it engaged all the senses.
The diverse culinary offerings and refreshing beverages created a literal feast, complemented by stunning Day of the Dead art installations and murals that adorned the festival grounds. Attendees exhibited top-tier fashion despite the scorching weather, adding a touch of style to the already vibrant atmosphere.
A commendable aspect of the festival was its commitment to community support, with part of the proceeds benefiting the Texas One Fund, which supports student athletes at the University
of Texas. This dual commitment to entertainment and social responsibility added depth to the overall experience.
As the day unfolded with greats like Elephante, Caifanes, and Juanes gracing the stages, one couldn’t help but wish for more. The only critique would be a desire for an extended festival spanning two days to accommodate the wealth of legendary performers and the diverse array of genres that make Besame Mucho Festival a standout event in the heart of Texas.
The logistical challenge of managing such a diverse lineup was met with a brilliant solution – a rotating stage that assisted with the transition between acts. However, not everything went off
without a hitch. Parking passes ran out early and the shuttle took over an hour to arrive from downtown Austin to COTA. The tight schedule and occasional sound issues with Group Frontera’s set added a touch of chaos made some fans frustrated.
Despite these minor setbacks, the festival radiated a beautiful energy, displaying a cross-generational love for Mexican music. Besame Mucho Festival in Austin was not just a music festival; it was a celebration of culture, a feast for the senses, and a testament to the enduring love for Mexican music that transcends generations. Despite a few logistical hiccups, the festival left attendees with warm memories and a longing for more.
Check out all our photos from the event on Austin 101.
