(KTLA) – Legendary Mexican singer Paquita la del Barrio has died at 77 years old.
Paquita, whose real name is Francisca Viveros Barradas, passed away at her home in Veracruz, Mexico. Her family revealed her passing in a post on Monday morning on Instagram.
“With deep sorrow and sadness, we confirm the sensitive death of our beloved ‘Paquita La Del Barrio’ in her home of Veracruz,” the translated post read. “Being a unique and unrepeatable artist, who will leave an indelible mark in the hearts of all of us who knew her and enjoyed her music.”
Her family went on to say that during this “time of great pain,” they are “respectfully” asking the media to give them “space and understanding” so that they can grieve her privately.
“We appreciate your understanding during this difficult time,” the post continued. “Rest in Peace, your music and legacy will always live in our hearts.”
The “Rata de dos patas” singer started performing under the name Paquita la del Barrio in 1970 at a Mexico City restaurant. In 1986, she got her big break after performing on a Televisa show, which led to her landing a recording contract.
Throughout her decades-long career, she used her lyrics to uplift women and slamming machismo attitudes in male culture. The Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter recorded over 30 albums, which touched on many genres, including rancheras, boleros and other Mexican musical genres.
Her death comes after she was hospitalized in 2022 for pulmonary thrombosis. This had a major impact on her mobility and caused her to pull back on some appearances.
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