Paquita la del Barrio, whose real name was Francisca Viveros Barradas, was a prominent Mexican singer, songwriter, and actress. Renowned for her powerful voice and emotionally charged performances, she primarily sang rancheras and boleros, along with other traditional Mexican music. She was a Grammy-nominated artist celebrated for her contribution to Mexican musical culture.
On April 2, 1947, Francisca Viveros Barradas, who would later be known as Paquita la del Barrio, was born. She became a renowned Mexican singer, songwriter, and actress.
In 1968, Paquita la del Barrio had her first son, Iván Miguel, during her first marriage.
In 1969, Paquita la del Barrio had her second son, Javier, during her first marriage.
In 1970, Paquita la del Barrio began her career in Mexico City, performing at a local restaurant in Colonia Guerrero and developing a loyal fan base.
On December 26, 1977, Paquita la del Barrio had twins during her second marriage. Sadly, they died three days later.
In 1979, Paquita la del Barrio adopted Martha Elena, who is her niece, adding her to her family.
In 1986, Paquita la del Barrio had her big break after performing on a Televisa show, which led to a recording contract with CBS Records, exposing her to a wider audience.
In 2001, Paquita la del Barrio's second marriage ended with the death of her husband, marking the end of their 31-year union.
In 2008, Paquita la del Barrio duetted with Ricardo Arjona on "Ni Tú Ni Yo" on his album 5to Piso, and also performed at the Premios Lo Nuestro and the Latin Grammy Awards.
In a 2008 interview with The Miami Herald, Paquita la del Barrio stated that she was defending women through her music, speaking of her experiences.
In 2010, Paquita la del Barrio participated in the multi-artist Haiti earthquake benefit, lending her vocals to "Somos El Mundo", the Spanish version of "We Are The World".
In 2013, Paquita la del Barrio's album Romeo Y Su Nieta earned her a nomination for the 56th Annual Grammy Awards under Best Regional Mexican Music Album (Including Tejano).
In 2016, Paquita la del Barrio was honored with the "Trajectory Award" at the Premio Lo Nuestro.
During the 2021 Billboard Music Awards, when Bad Bunny helped Paquita with her microphone, she jokingly called him "inútil" (good-for-nothing).
In 2021, Paquita la del Barrio ran for State Congress in Veracruz for the Citizens' Movement party, marking her entry into politics.
Paquita la del Barrio received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2021 Billboard Latin Music Awards, recognizing her long-lasting impact in music.
Paquita la del Barrio died on February 17, 2025. She was a Grammy-nominated performer of rancheras, boleros and other traditional and contemporary Mexican musical genres.