Paquita la del Barrio, Mexican Singer-Songwriter, Dies at 77

Paquita la del Barrio, the emblematic Mexican singer-songwriter known for her anthemic ranchera ballads, died on Monday at her home in Veracruz. She was 77.

Her family confirmed the news on social media early Monday morning, but did not list a cause of death. “With profound pain and sadness, we confirm the sensible death of our beloved Paquita la del Barrio at her home in Veracruz,” their statement read.

They continued, “She was a unique and unmatched artist who left a permanent mark in the hearts of all who knew her and who enjoyed her music. In this moment of great pain we ask respectfully that public opinion and the media give us space and understanding so her family can mourn in peace and privacy. We thank you for your understanding and respect in this difficult time. Rest in peace, your music and legacy will live forever in our hearts.”

Paquita was born Francisca Viveros Barradas in Veracruz on April 2, 1947. She started her career in entertainment as a small town singer in Mexico City but broke through in the Mexican ranchera genre, a field typically dominated by men, after signing a deal with CBS Records. Over the years, Paquita embraced this part of her story fiercely — fearlessly and comically leaning on feminist themes in her anthems of love and revenge. Songs like “Rata de dos Patas” (“Two-Legged Rats”) and “Tres Veces Te Engane” (“Three Times I Cheated on You”) served as commentary on the machismo culture ingrained in Mexican culture.

She released over 30 albums and received three Grammy nominations (all of them in the regional Mexican or Tejano album category). Outside of music, the singer also appeared on screen for TelevisaUnivision’s “Velo de Novia” in 2003, and on “Amor de Barrio” in 2015.

Paquita had been struggling with health issues in recent years and had started using oxygen supplies. She postponed a concert earlier this year citing health concerns but was slated to play a series of shows as part of El Flaco y El Mimoso’s “2 Primos de Cuidado Tour.”