Paquita la del Barrio, the renowned Mexican singer-songwriter celebrated for her powerful ranchera ballads, passed away on Monday at her home in Veracruz at the age of 77. Her family announced the heartbreaking news via social media, though they did not disclose the cause of death.
In their heartfelt statement, the family expressed their profound sorrow, highlighting Paquita as a “unique and unmatched artist” who made an indelible impact on the hearts of those who knew her and cherished her music. They requested privacy for the family during this difficult time, emphasizing the need for space to grieve. “Rest in peace; your music and legacy will live forever in our hearts,” they said.
Born Francisca Viveros Barradas on April 2, 1947, in Veracruz, Paquita began her career singing in small venues throughout Mexico City before finding success in the male-dominated ranchera genre after signing with CBS Records. Her music often featured themes of feminism and empowerment, using humor and strength in songs like “Rata de dos Patas” (“Two-Legged Rats”) and “Tres Veces Te Engane” (“Three Times I Cheated on You”), which critiqued the ingrained machismo in Mexican culture.
Throughout her career, Paquita released over 30 albums and received three Grammy nominations in the regional Mexican or Tejano album category. Beyond her music, she also made appearances on television, including TelevisaUnivision’s “Velo de Novia” in 2003 and “Amor de Barrio” in 2015.
In her later years, Paquita faced health challenges and had started utilizing oxygen supplies, having postponed a concert earlier this year due to concerns for her well-being. Despite these struggles, she was scheduled to perform soon as part of the “2 Primos de Cuidado Tour.”
Paquita la del Barrio leaves behind a rich legacy of music, one that will continue to inspire future generations. Her fearless spirit and profound contributions to the ranchera genre underscore the importance of female voices in music. Her songs resonate beyond her lifetime, serving as anthems for strength, resilience, and empowerment.