Special Feature: Billboard a la Musica Mexicana -- Sound Men

The finalists for producer of the year at the Billboard Mexican Music Awards are shaping the current sound of the regional Mexican genre.

JOSE TIRADO CASTANEDA

Castaneda, the founder and producer of grupera band Banda Carnaval, steered "Y Te Vas" to the top of the Regional Mexican Airplay chart. A producer of the year finalist in 2012, the prolific Castañeda competes in the category this year based on eight songs, including five produced for Calibre 50, and the popular Carnaval/­Calibre collaboration "Gente Batallosa."

GERARDO ORTIZ