Narcocorridos are a subgenre of corridos, a traditional form of Mexican narrative ballad. They tell stories about the lives and exploits of drug traffickers, often glorifying their actions and lifestyles. These songs typically feature themes of violence, betrayal, and the struggles of living in a drug-related environment. The genre emerged in the late 20th century, gaining popularity as drug cartels became more prominent in Mexico. While some view narcocorridos as a reflection of reality, others criticize them for promoting illegal activities and a culture of violence. Despite the controversy, they remain a significant part of contemporary Mexican music.