On October 10, 2025, Warner Chappell Music U.S. Latin and WCM Mexico announced a global publishing agreement with Rico o Muerto, an independent Mexican record label co-founded by artist Oscar Maydon and manager-songwriter Alexis “Chachito” Fierro. The deal aims to expand the label’s creative reach worldwide while keeping the authentic sound of música Mexicana at its core.
Founded in 2024 under the direction of Yusim Aladro, Rico o Muerto operates three offices across Mexico — Mexicali, Mexico City, and Tijuana — along with representatives in Los Angeles. In partnership with Downtown Artist and Label Services, the label recently signed its flagship songwriter, Víctor Mendívil, marking a significant step in its publishing and creative growth.
Alexis “Chachito” Fierro shared the vision behind the partnership:
“We founded Rico o Muerto with the vision of empowering our artists, because as artists and songwriters ourselves, we understand their needs. We were looking for a partner who shared that vision, and that’s why today, we proudly place our trust in Warner Chappell. We’re very excited for what’s ahead. Y puro Rico o Muerto!”
From Warner Chappell’s side, the tone reflects confidence and long-term collaboration. Carlos Ruiz, Managing Director of WCM Mexico, and Delia Orjuela, Head of Creative, Música Mexicana, stated:
“Rico o Muerto has quickly become one of the most exciting forces in música Mexicana. Their deep roots in the genre and forward-thinking vision make them ideal partners as we expand Warner Chappell’s presence within this new wave of artists. With talents like new signing Víctor Mendívil and a growing roster of voices, we’re proud to help bring their music to an even bigger global stage. Alongside Oscar, Chachito, Yusim, and our talented WCM family, there are many great things ahead.”
Gustavo Menéndez, President of U.S. Latin & Latin America at WCM, added:
“I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Chachito and Oscar Maydon, and it’s clear that beyond being gifted songwriters – and in Oscar’s case, a super talented artist – they have a remarkable instinct for discovering and developing promising talent. I couldn’t be happier to be working with them!”
The label’s catalog includes collaborations that have already gained wide attention: Víctor Mendívil co-wrote viral hits such as “Tony Montana” with Yng Lvcas, “Un Pacto” with El Padrinito Toys, and “San Pedro” with Ganggy. Other artists on the roster include Omar Camacho, Regulo Molina, Carlos Manjarrez, and Fernando Angulo.
Beyond the creative aspects, the deal focuses on editorial management and global distribution, aligning the label’s independent structure with Warner Chappell’s extensive publishing network. The goal is to strengthen Rico o Muerto’s presence in the northern Mexican independent scene while expanding its footprint internationally through synchronization, licensing, and editorial projects.
This collaboration also reflects a broader movement within música Mexicana: independent labels are building sustainable models that protect creative ownership while accessing global infrastructures. For Rico o Muerto, the agreement signals a new phase of artistic expansion, with upcoming releases and publishing initiatives already in motion.
Glossary
- Music publishing: The business of managing song copyrights, collecting royalties, and licensing compositions for use across media.
- Independent label: A record company operating without the financial backing of major corporations, often prioritizing creative control and artist development.
- Synchronization (sync): Licensing a song for use in visual media, such as films, series, or advertising.
Warner Chappell Music — Warner Chappell Music signs global publishing deal with Rico o Muerto (2025). https://warnerchappell.com/it/ (accessed October 11, 2025).
