You may have seen the viral clip of non-binary Mexican performance artist and former fashion model Tenorio (they/them) paying homage to Beychella in April 2020. The clip went viral for Tenorio's flawless rendition of Beyonce’s performance at Coachella (dubbed “Beychella”) to "Everybody Mad," a song by rapper O.T. Genasis. Tenorio danced alongside their Friesian horse named Thomas, which appeared to keep beat with the music. The viral moment was well timed; not only did the internet take notice, but so did Genasis who reposted the clip to his millions of followers. The clip was also reposted by other celebrities such as Jewel and J.K. Rowling, and Tenorio was featured in national publications, garnering them further attention, though they are no stranger to the spotlight. If you’ve yet to discover Tenorio, you've been missing out on one of LA’s freshest Latino faces.
A former fashion model, Tenorio has graced the pages of international publications with their smoldering good looks and impressive editorials. Tenorio is not afraid of breaking the rules. Dubbed "La Diva De La Banda," Tenorio often dresses as a cowboy—or vaquero—to perform traditional Mexican songs—or corridos—a cappella on their social media accounts.
Tenorio believes that Beyonce took notice of the viral clip which influenced visuals for her new album, “Renaissance.” They believe their visuals have lowkey influenced the Kardashians and other major fashion brands. The influence may have gone uncredited, but not unnoticed. Tenorio, who works for the family business when not pursuing their passion for their performance art, is destined for stardom in their own right and timing. I recently caught up with them to discuss how life has been since going viral and what their plans are for the future.
You've had two incredible years after you released your dance video. How has the recognition by the press changed your life?
Thank you! It has been an incredible two years. Breaking the internet with a visual I’ve had since I was a child was everything I could dream of. As an artist, the best recognition is people loving your work. From Jewel, O.T. Genasis to J. K. Rowling, they left me speechless by sharing my video! Especially, the rap community. To embrace a Latino Queer artist meant the world to me. People said it was an homage— and it was—but it was an introduction to the world. I am Tenorio. I recently finished filming a show on Estrella TV, a Spanish network. I love that I’ve been given these opportunities to show more of who I am as an artist.
Did you ever hear from Beyonce herself, or did you feel that you influenced her somehow? Her imagery on this album reminds me of what you've done.
The choreographer that made the iconic choreography of “Everybody Mad,” JaQuel Knight, reposted the video. It was a huge honor! He’s one of my favorite artists! One hundred percent, I influenced her for her new Renaissance era! So much, she felt inspired to go to the two farms I often frequent for my projects, which are Four Legs on Set and Studio Steeds, and literally, picked the two horses I used for her recent projects with Adidas and Harper’s Bazaar. The horses look beautiful.
What do you love the most about being an influential Mexican artist?
When I first started creating my videos, I did them for my own sanity. I needed to put my anger, love, and frustration into something outside of myself. I’ve always wanted to be the next diva singer like my idol Jenni Rivera. I realized that I had to do it by myself. Nobody will ever see me the way I see myself. I love to sing corridos and dance-pop music. I am the pop star of the future!
As a former fashion model, what skills would you say you learned in that industry that have helped you today?
To be a great model, you have to be a great performer. To move, to evoke emotions from a pose is powerful. To be unaware and aware. To value my own opinion about my body the most.
What would you like to see specifically for Latino artists in Los Angeles? What do you feel needs to change to help nurture others and develop their confidence to pursue the arts?
Create opportunities that matter, so we can make money and have decent lives. It’s hard to encourage others to pursue the arts as a Latino, when being rich, white, and mediocre is celebrated in Hollywood.
Agreed! What professional or personal challenges have you overcome that can inspire others to overcome their own challenges?
I appeared in L’Uomo Vogue and W magazines. Peter Lindbergh directly booked me. It was almost 10 years before my video went viral. And even then, something as insignificant as getting verified online is an obstacle. According to Instagram, I don’t meet their requirements. It's the age of social media. Even when we create spectacular work, it’s still seen as a fluke. Nothing about me is. I am my own creation. So, to young artists I say, get a job to be at the mercy of yourself and nobody else. And to hold value in your own opinion.
What is next for Tenorio?
I just had a major audition for a director who has one of the most amazing shows on Netflix. I’m just happy to be in the conversation. I’m in the room to be considered as an actor, dancer, and singer; I am open to all
of it. I’m also looking for an agent or manager at CAA.
Keep up with Tenorio on Instagram @tenorio_____.
Creative Credits
- Written by
- Christina Rosas Anastasiou
- Photography
- Olivia López
- Retouching
- Brianna Kish
