Mexican musical legend Paquita la del Barrio dies aged 77
A two-time Grammy and Latin Grammy nominee, Paquita la del Barrio received recognition from across the industry.
Mexican musical legend Paquita la del Barrio, known for her powerful voice and fierce defence of women, died at her home in Veracruz on Monday at the age of 77.
Her death was announced on her official social media accounts and confirmed by her representatives to The Associated Press.
The state capital of Veracruz will mourn the loss of the singer, who had faced a number of recent health problems.
“With deep pain and sadness we confirm the sensitive passing of our beloved Paquita la del Barrio at her home in Veracruz,” the statement said.
Born Francisca Viveros Barradas, Paquita la del Barrio captivated audiences with songs of heartbreak and betrayal, including anthems like Rata De Dos Patas and Tres Veces Te Engane.
While her fan base was predominantly women, her powerful performances also drew men to her concerts.
“At the beginning, many men said ‘Why would I go, to get shamed?’.
A two-time Grammy and Latin Grammy nominee, Paquita la del Barrio received recognition from across the industry, including the Billboard Latin Music Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2021, which was presented to her by Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny.
News of her death sparked an outpouring of grief on social media.
The Latin Grammys and Apple Music were among the many who paid tribute.
“RIP Paquita la del Barrio, the feminist icon from Mexico who sang what others were afraid to say,” wrote Apple Music on X, formerly Twitter.
