Beloved Mexican artist Paquita la del Barrio dies at the age of 77, Rest in Peace Paquita
Gitablogsport.com - Mexican music legend Paquita la del Barrio has passed away at the age of 77. Known for her powerful voice and relentless advocacy for women, she died at her home in Veracruz in the early hours of Monday, February 17, 2025.
.jpg)
According to The Hollywood Reporter on Monday (2/17/25), the singer’s passing was announced on her official social media accounts and later confirmed by her representatives to The Associated Press. The capital of Veracruz State mourned the loss of the iconic singer. Reports suggest that she had been facing several health issues in recent times.
"With deep sorrow and grief, we confirm the passing of our beloved Paquita la del Barrio at her home in Veracruz," the statement read. "She was a unique and irreplaceable artist who will leave an everlasting mark in the hearts of all who knew and loved her music."
A Legacy of Heartbreak and Betrayal in Music
Throughout her career, Paquita became famous for her songs about heartbreak and betrayal. Her most famous hit, "Rata de dos patas" ("Two-Legged Rat"), metaphorically described a cheating man as a rat. She was also the voice behind hit albums such as "Puro Dolor," "Eres Un Farsante," and "Romeo Y Su Nieta."
Concert Cancellation Due to Health Issues
According to Verdauen (1/26/25), Paquita had previously canceled her concert at the National Auditorium in Mexico City alongside Sonora Santanera due to leg problems in January. She was later hospitalized for an extended recovery period due to various health concerns.
In a public statement regarding the concert cancellation, Paquita apologized to her fans and expressed hope of returning in March. "Thank you for your understanding, and I hope you can join me on March 16 to sing all my songs together," she wrote.
Contrary to speculation, Paquita was not suffering from any serious illness. While she admitted to being inconsistent in using her oxygen therapy, she was not diagnosed with diabetes, cancer, liver disease, or any degenerative conditions. Despite being overweight, she did not have life-threatening health issues.
Paquita la del Barrio’s Career
Paquita began her career in the 1970s, performing at a local restaurant in Colonia Guerrero. Her weekly performances quickly attracted a loyal audience, leading her to adopt her now-famous stage name, Paquita la del Barrio ("Paquita from the Neighborhood").
She was not only a trailblazer for women in Mexican music but also a fierce critic of misogyny in the industry. For over three decades, she used her music to call out unfaithful men, confront societal norms, and empower women.
.jpg)
Her fame skyrocketed with "Rata de dos patas," which became an anthem against deceitful men. She also found success with other albums like "Puro Dolor," "Eres Un Farsante," and "Romeo Y Su Nieta."
Paquita, whose real name was Francisca Viveros Barradas, was once nominated for both Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards. In 2021, she received recognition from the entire music industry, including a Billboard Latin Music Award for her contributions to Latin music.
Outpouring of Condolences
Paquita la del Barrio’s passing triggered an outpouring of grief on social media. Organizations like Latin Grammy and Apple Music expressed their condolences, acknowledging her immense impact on the music industry.
"RIP Paquita la del Barrio, a feminist icon from Mexico who sang what others were afraid to say," wrote Apple Music on X (formerly Twitter).
Her legacy as a fearless voice for women and a powerhouse in ranchera music will forever be remembered. Rest in peace, Paquita.