Maleante comes from the root malo (bad) and is slang for a crook, thug, or someone who lives outside the law.
When Natanael Cano declares “Soy maleante y es lo que hay,” he’s proudly embracing a rebellious, street-wise image. It’s a vivid, memorable word you won’t see in a textbook—perfect for learners who want to pick up authentic, real-world Spanish.
In "AMG", Natanael Cano teams up with Peso Pluma and Gabito Ballesteros for a massive corrido tumbado track that is all about flexing hard-earned success. The song looks back at the grind with lines like "Claro que le batallĂ©" (Of course I struggled) and "No soy el mismo que era ayer" (I am not the same person I was yesterday). Now, the rewards are everywhere. The title itself comes straight from the luxury SUV Natanael dreamed of owning: "Mercedes AMG, Clase G-63 / Lo que un dĂa soñé / Todo ya me lo comprĂ©" (Mercedes AMG, G-Class 63 / What I once dreamed of / Now I bought it all). The artists roll through fast cars, private jets, popping champagne, and sightseeing from Mazatlán while rocking Nike sneakers.
Along with the high-life flexes, the lyrics keep a street-smart edge. The singers make it clear they keep score: "Muy bueno para las cuentas / Todo apunto en la libreta" (Very good with math / I write everything down in the notebook). They warn rivals with "la lista negra" (the blacklist) and stay on guard because "Los radios suenan y suenan / Pero yo siempre ando alerta" (The two-way radios keep ringing / But I always stay alert). It is a direct, brag-heavy track about trading past struggles for supercars and cash.
Natanael Rubén Cano Monge, born on March 27, 2001, in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, is a groundbreaking Mexican rapper, singer, and composer.
He is best known for pioneering "corridos tumbados," a unique fusion of traditional regional Mexican corridos with modern trap and hip-hop elements. Beginning his career by uploading guitar covers and original songs on YouTube, Natanael quickly gained recognition for blending genres and storytelling. His hit "Soy el Diablo" gained international attention, especially after a remix with Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny.
Signed to Rancho Humilde and Warner Latina, Cano has released several successful albums and EPs, showcasing his dynamic style. Drawing inspiration from legends like Ariel Camacho and contemporary Latin trap artists, Natanael Cano continues to innovate and shape the future of regional Mexican music.