Alejandro Fernández has music in his blood. The Mexican singer is the son of ranchera legend Vicente Fernández, and he made his first appearance onstage at one of his father’s concerts when he was just five years old. He may have ended that appearance in tears after forgetting the lyrics to the song he was supposed to sing, but his career certainly took off following that inauspicious start.
Fernández released his first album in 1992, and since then he’s branched out into mainstream pop from traditional Mexican music and has collaborated with international stars including Rod Stewart, Placido Domingo, Christina Aguilera and Beyoncé, as well as with his father Vicente.
Fernández’s live shows still balance the ranchera style with more modern pop, with Fernández switching out of his traditional charro suit as he transitions musical styles. On his latest album, last year’s Rompiendo Fronteras, Fernández bridges those styles, with ranchera, pop and reggaeton all mixing together. All Music called it “the Mexican superstar’s most radical album,” demonstrating Fernández’s commitment to pushing his music forward. To celebrate Mexican Independence Day in Las Vegas, there’s no better choice than a Mexican icon who’s committed to exploring his musical independence.
Mandalay Bay, 9 p.m. Sept. 15, $49-$225 plus tax and fee. 800.745.3000 Ticketmaster
