Perhaps because YouTube was his original platform, Gerardo Ortiz never followed the traditional corrido format that preceded him, in which the gangster life is simply narrated. Instead, he depicts drug cartel wars with unapologetic bravado and cinematic detail, intriguing a new generation of listeners. Backed by campy accordions and big brass, he makes it known that there’s a new jefe in town and he’s not slowing down—except to court the ladies with some seductive banda on “Hasta Que Te Bese” and “Me Emocionas”.