Paquita la del Barrio, Mexican Singer, Dies at 77: ‘A Unique and Irreplaceable Artist’

Paquita la del Barrio, a famed Mexican singer known for her empowering songs for women, has died.

The ranchera and bolero singer’s official Instagram account shared the news of her death on Monday, Feb. 17. She was 77.

“With profound pain and sadness, we confirm the passing of our dear ‘Paquita La Del Barrio,’ in her Veracruz home,” the statement translated from Spanish said. “A unique and irreplaceable artist who left a permanent fingerprint on the heart of all of us who knew her and enjoyed her music.

“We thank you in advance for your understanding and respect during this difficult time,” the statement concluded. “Rest in peace, your music and legacy with live always in our hearts.”

Per the New York Times, la del Barrio was set to perform at the National Auditorium in Mexico City in January but canceled her appearance citing health concerns.

Born Francisca Viveros Barradas in 1947 in Veracruz, Mexico, the singer was known for songs such as “Tres Veces te Engañé” (Three Times I Cheated on You) and “Rata de Dos Patas” (Two-Legged Rat).

According to USA Today, la del Barrio began her career in the ’70s in Mexico City, singing in bars and restaurants. She covered Daniel Santos and Julio Jaramillo covers with sister Viola Viveros before embarking on her solo career.

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She credited Antonio Aguilar and Pedro Infante as her major influences, per CNN. Many of la del Barrio’s songs were considered feminist anthems, empowering her listeners while calling out men for their poor behavior. She released dozens of albums throughout her career.

Additionally, she was nominated for three Grammys: best Mexican/Mexican-American album for Puro Dolor in 2008, regional Mexican or Tejano Album for Eres Un Farsante in 2012 and best Regional Mexican music album (including Tejano) for Romeo Y Su Nieta in 2014.

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She was also honored by the 2021 Billboard Latin Music Awards with the lifetime achievement award, becoming the first woman to receive the merit. “Thank you for taking me into consideration and for distinguishing me with this honor,” she told the audience upon accepting the award.

“I have so many things I could say but I prefer to simply thank you for the love.”

She was married two times, having two children with her first husband (who was almost 30 years older than her and whom she wed when she was a teenager). la del Barrios went on to remarry and had three more children with her second husband, Alfonso Martínez.