Vivir Quintana, singer-songwriter, activist, and former teacher, stands as one of the most powerful voices in contemporary Latin American music. Today, she unveils her latest single, “Era él o era yo,” a haunting composition in the style of a traditional Mexican corrido that tells the real-life story of a woman who ends up in prison after defending herself against an aggressor who threatened her life.
This track is part of Vivir’s newest album, Cosas que sorprenden a la audiencia, which features ten corridos based on true stories of women who, after defending themselves or resisting gender-based violence, were criminalized by the judicial system and sentenced to time in various detention centers throughout Mexico.
Quintana’s corridos provoke deep reflection and empathy, calling into question prevailing notions of justice and sparking conversations about whether a woman should lose her freedom for choosing to survive amid extreme violence.
To further amplify its message, “Era él o era yo” is accompanied by a powerful music video directed by David Pablos and starring renowned Mexican actress Fernanda Castillo. In the video, Castillo is joined by a group of dancers in a moving, choreographed performance. Each movement is a metaphor—expressing struggle, confinement, fear, and, above all, the pain and dignity of a woman who refuses to die in submission.
With this new composition, Vivir Quintana continues to affirm her role as an essential voice in denouncing systemic violence—particularly gender-based violence—while using her talent to amplify the stories of women who have survived these injustices. Through her music, she creates a space for empathy, awareness, and for the voices that have long been silenced to finally be heard.
“Era él o era yo” is now available on all digital platforms. Follow Vivir Quintana to stay connected to her music and message.
