by Randy Cordova - Sept. 5, 2011 10:31 AM
The Arizona Republic
He may be the son of iconic Mexican singer Vicente Fernandez, but Alejandro Fernandez has done a fine job in establishing his own legacy. At 40, the younger Fernandez is, in the Spanish-speaking world, a household name whose every move gets tabloid coverage.
Alejandro Fernandez
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday.
Where: Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix.
Admission: $38-$150.
Details: 602-379-2888, livenation.com.
Sometimes that is due to his music - for example, his comically edgy 2009 song "Unas Nalgadas" dealt with spanking and angered women's groups. Then there's his playboy image and matinee-idol looks, all of which encourage tabloid speculation about his life.
Initially a pure mariachi star, these days Fernandez moves between traditional and pop sounds with ease, a choice that has expanded his audience even further. The singer opted out of a phone interview but answered questions by e-mail to promote this week's gig at the Comerica Theatre.
Question: Mariachi or pop - which is it?
Answer: I love both styles, but if I had to choose, it will probably be mariachi. Those are my roots, my Mexican essence. It is the music with which I started.
Q: Which is more romantic?
A: Both are very romantic. It depends a lot on the lyrics, the music and the feeling the singer gives to each song.
Q: Is having such an iconic father a help or a hindrance?
A: It is a help and it is not, because everybody has high expectations about "the son of . . . ," and you have to demonstrate that you are an artist by your own merits, not because you are "the son of . . . ."
Q: Does he give you advice?
A: The very first years of my career he was always giving me advice. The one that meant the most to me was: If you are going to sing as a profession, do it from the heart and because you love to sing, not because of the payoff. And, as well, to give the best of myself in every concert and to honor and respect the audience.
Q: What have you learned from your father's career?
A: His passion, his devotion, his professionalism, his love and respect to Mexico and to Mexican music.
Q: Are any of your children musical?
A: All five are very musical.
Q: Would you encourage any of your children to pursue a musical career?
A: If any of my children decides to become a singer, and he or she is sure that is what they really love, of course, I would encourage them.
Q: U.S. immigration laws receive a lot of coverage in the United States
A: Yes. I believe (people) should be treated with respect as human beings.
Q: Were you surprised when "Unas Nalgadas" stirred up controversy?
A: I never imagined that such a controversy would come. It is a playful song, and it never encourages disrespect to a woman.
Q: You're known as a heartthrob. How important is it to you to look good?
A: I believe my public deserves respect. I do it for them.
Q: We've spoken before, and your English is excellent. Would you record in English?
A: You can never say never. If a good opportunity comes or a good song comes, maybe.
Q: Where did you learn English?
A: At school, and then by coming to the U.S. on tour every year!
Reach the reporter at randy.cordova@arizonarepublic.com or 602-444-8849.
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