Paquita la del Barrio, Iconic Mexican Singer Known for Denouncing Machismo, Passes Away at 77
Mexican singer and songwriter Paquita la del Barrio, renowned for her bold lyrics that challenged sexism in songs like “Tres tiempos te engañé,” “Rata de dos patas,” and “Las rodilleras,” has passed away at the age of 77, according to an announcement on her official Instagram account.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of our beloved Paquita la del Barrio at her home in Veracruz,” read a statement shared on Monday (February 17). “A unique and irreplaceable artist, she leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew her and enjoyed her music. In this moment of grief, we respectfully ask the media and the public for privacy and understanding as her family mourns in peace.”
With a career spanning over five decades, Paquita la del Barrio became an icon of Mexican popular music. In 2011, she received the Billboard Regional Mexican Music Award La Voz, and a decade later, in 2021, she was honored with the Billboard Latin Music Award for Artistic Lifetime Achievement in recognition of her exceptional contributions to the industry.
Born Francisca Viveros Barradas in Veracruz, Mexico, she discovered her powerful voice early on, singing at school festivals. In the 1970s, she formed the duo Las Golondrinas with her sister Viola. By 1984, she launched her solo career with the album El Barrio de los Faroles, marking the beginning of an extraordinary musical journey.
Over the years, she recorded more than 30 albums and sold over 30 million copies. Her catalog of hits includes “Las mujeres mandan,” “La última parada,” “Me saludas a la tuya,” “Soltero maduro, chiquito,” and “Hombres malvados.”
On the Billboard charts, Paquita la del Barrio placed eight albums on the Top Latin Albums list, along with multiple hits on Regional Mexican Airplay (“Piérdeme el respeto” and “Si yo fuera varón”) and Tropical Airplay (“Pobre pistolita”).
She was married twice, to Miguel Gerardo and Alfonso MartÃnez, and was the mother of three children.
Her legacy as a fearless voice against gender inequality and a champion of women’s empowerment in music will continue to inspire generations.
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