Orquesta Irawo de México is a salsa ensemble founded in Mexico City in 2016 by percussionist, producer, arranger, and composer Jorge Bautista Rodríguez. The group's name, "Irawo," is a Yoruba word meaning "star." The band, which also features vocalist Perla Rodríguez, was established with the goal of preserving and performing the classic 1970s salsa dura sound. The orchestra made its official debut at the Centro Nacional de las Artes (CNA) in Mexico City as part of the "Salseros de México" concert series, introducing their debut production, "¡Con Salsa De Verdad!".
Characterized by a robust horn section featuring saxophone, trumpet, and trombone positioned over a driving rhythm section, the orchestra avoids commercialized trends in favor of traditional salsa. Their recorded work includes the 2024 single "Rumbera Azteca" and the 2026 single "Guerreros," both of which showcase their commitment to energetic, independent salsa dura.
