Overview
- Russian content creator Natalia Popova filmed huapango performers in a Mexico City restaurant and labeled the music as noise while questioning why they expect payment.
- The short video spread rapidly across platforms such as X after users reposted downloaded copies from TikTok.
- Following the backlash, Popova set her TikTok account to private and later posted a defense asserting that her income comes from Russia.
- She said she is not obligated to pay Mexican income tax despite having lived in the country for two years, a claim that drew sharper criticism online.
- News outlets highlighted huapango’s roots in the Huasteca region and described its distinctive rhythms and instruments, underscoring its cultural significance.