Mexican singer Natanael Cano is facing scrutiny after a video circulated online appearing to show him performing inside the Hermosillo Social Rehabilitation Center No. 1 (Cereso 1), reportedly during a celebration for an inmate.
Authorities in Sonora have confirmed they opened an investigation to determine if the footage is authentic and whether crimes or irregularities were committed. The video, which quickly went viral, shows Cano singing the track "El Despapaye" while surrounded by men who appear to be inmates. The clip also shows alcohol and cigarettes in the room, raising questions about how such items were allowed into a correctional facility.
Es Natanael Cano, cantando en el Cereso de Hermosillo, a inicios de este año. ¿Cómo entró y quién lo permitió? Las autoridades locales indagan los hechos y la veracidad del video. pic.twitter.com/7TEUt0OQL4
— Pamela Cerdeira (@PamCerdeira) September 15, 2025
Reports indicated that the performance was organized for Francisco Alejandro, known artistically as El Terry, who has been in pretrial detention since March 2024 on charges of aggravated sexual assault. According to the reports, the party was held inside the prison and attended by inmates, with Cano performing live.
Sonora's Attorney General, Gustavo Rómulo Salas Chávez, said that investigators are reviewing the footage to determine whether it was indeed recorded inside Cereso 1. "We are analyzing the authenticity of the video and will identify responsibilities if the facts are confirmed," Salas told local media.
Authorities have not confirmed whether Cano will face criminal charges. However, if the performance took place as reported, prison officials could also face disciplinary measures for allowing unauthorized access and banned items such as alcohol.
This is not the first time the controversial "corridos tumbados" star has faced legal issues or been linked to narcos. In November 2024, a judge refused to dismiss criminal proceedings against Cano after he was accused of attempting to bribe police officers during a traffic pursuit in Hermosillo. He also faced controversy for saying that he would perform for anyone who pays him.
The Sonoran artist was vocal in his criticism of the Mexican government's crackdown on the "narcocorrido" genre. The Sinaloa Cartel has also threatened his life for allegedly collaborating with their enemies.
So far, officials have not confirmed whether Cano was formally invited by prison authorities or whether the alleged performance was clandestinely arranged. It is also unclear who financed or coordinated the event and how alcohol and other banned items made their way inside the facility. There has been no official statement from Cano's management team regarding the prison performance allegations.
If the video is authenticated, Cano could face legal consequences and damage to his reputation. For now, Sonora's prosecutor has promised transparency in the investigation. "If there are violations of the law, there will be consequences," Salas said.
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