Paquita la del Barrio passes away at 77 – A Legend of Mexican Music gone
Mexican music icon "Paquita la del Barrio" has passed away at the age of 77. Known for her bold lyrics and ranchera hits, she leaves behind a lasting legacy in Latin music.
"Paquita la del Barrio", the legendary Mexican singer known for her ranchera anthems and unapologetic lyrics, has passed away at the age of 77.
A beloved icon in Latin music, she spent decades using her powerful voice to denounce machismo and empower women through her songs. Her passing marks the end of an era for fans who admired her fearless approach to storytelling in music.
"Paquita la del Barrio" dies at 77
This morning, her team posted on her Instagram account a statement following her death. "It is with great sorrow that we confirm the sad passing of Paquita la del Barrio, at her home in Veracruz".
Paquita's team announced her dead via Instagram. Photo: Paquita la del Barrio Oficial Instagram account.
"We most respectfully ask the media and fans to give us space and understanding so that the family can grieve in privacy".
Although the statement from her social media team did not provide many details about the cause of death, the famous Mexican singer had several health issues, including sciatica, which developed after a pulmonary thrombosis that led to her hospitalization. Although she managed to recover, she continued to experience sciatic nerve pain until her passing.
Who was "Paquita la del Barrio"?
Born on April 2, 1947, in the state of Veracruz, Francisca Viveros Barradas, better known as "Paquita la del Barrio", grew up in a humble environment. From an early age, she showed an interest in music, a talent nurtured by her elementary school teachers, who encouraged her to participate in school festivals. However, the economic limitations of her family, who worked in agriculture, delayed her formal education, and she was only able to complete primary school at the age of 16.
At 16, she married a man 28 years older than her, Miguel Magaña, but the relationship ended seven years later when she discovered he was already married and had another family. Her second husband, Alfonso Martínez, passed away in 2000 after 31 years of marriage.