Paquita la del Barrio Dead at 77

Mexican vocalist and actress Paquita la del Barrio — known for powerful feminist anthems like “Rata de Dos Patas,” “Tres Veces Te Engañé,” and “Las Mujeres Mandan” that often railed against cheating men and misogyny — has died. She was 77.

Her team confirmed her death on her official social media accounts. “With profound pain and sadness, we confirm the sensible death of our beloved Paquita la del Barrio at her home in Veracruz,” a statement read. “She was a one-of-a-kind and unmatched artist who left a permanent mark in the hearts of all who knew her and who enjoyed her music.”

“In this moment of great pain we ask respectfully that public opinion and the media give us space and understanding so her family can mourn in piece and privacy,” the statement continued. “We thank you for your understanding and respect in this difficult time. Rest in peace, your music and legacy will live forever in our hearts.” No cause of death was given.

The artist, whose birth name was Francisca Viveros Barradas, was born in Veracruz and started her career as a performer in Mexico City. Her powerful voice earned her a recording contract in the late Eighties, and she quickly compiled a lengthy catalogue of more than 30 albums that extended into the late 2010s. (Her 2013 album Romeo Y Su Nieta earned her a Grammy nomination for Best Regional Mexican Music Album.)

Throughout her career, she was known for never mincing words, calling out men for misbehavior and backwards attitudes in her music. Her most famous ranchera, “Ratas de Dos Patas,” became an anthem for women confronting cheating partners, largely because of its ferocious lyrics: “Filthy rat, creeping animal/Scum of life, shoddy monstrosity/Subhuman, specter of Hell/Damn vermin/How much damaged you’ve done to me,” the opening verses go.

She continued to leave a lasting legacy behind in her later years, famously showing solidarity to other female acts. In 2023, after Shakira released her song “Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53″ aimed at her ex Gerard Piqué, Paquita la del Barrio left her a video message backing her up on Instagram. “Give it your all. The important thing is that you have your children, someone to live for and everything in life, Mija. Don’t worry,” she told her. “I am in Mexico; if you need anything from me, with pleasure, know that I’m here to help. Sending you a big hug, and may God bless you.”

Earlier this year, Paquita la del Barrio had been battling health issues and had been seen using oxygen. She postponed a concert in Mexico earlier this year to recover.