VERACRUZ, MEXICO (KABC) – The world has lost a musical icon. Paquita la del Barrio, celebrated for her fearless persona and stirring songs, has passed away at 77. Her official Instagram account confirmed that Paquita, born Francisca Viveros Barradas, died in her home in Veracruz, Mexico. The cause of her passing remains undisclosed.
Paquita left an indelible mark on the music scene with hits like “Rata de dos Patas,” a poignant anthem about a deceitful ex-lover that resonated with audiences everywhere. Recently, she had to cancel a performance at the National Auditorium in Mexico City due to issues with leg immobility.
A trailblazer in the male-dominated Mexican ranchera genre, Paquita was hailed as the “queen and defender of women”. Her powerful lyrics often championed women’s empowerment, earning her a devoted following among those seeking strength and inspiration through her music.