History of Paquita la del Barrio in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 18, 2025

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.

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Full Timeline

April 2, 1947: Birth of Francisca Viveros Barradas

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.

Others born on this day/year

1968: Birth of son Iván Miguel

In 1968, Paquita la del Barrio had her first son, Iván Miguel, during her first marriage.

1969: Birth of son Javier

In 1969, Paquita la del Barrio had her second son, Javier, during her first marriage.

1970: Career start in Mexico City

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.

December 26, 1977: Birth of twins

On December 26, 1977, Paquita la del Barrio had twins during her second marriage. Sadly, they died three days later.

1979: Adoption of Martha Elena

In 1979, Paquita la del Barrio adopted Martha Elena, who is her niece, adding her to her family.

1986: Breakthrough on Televisa and contract with CBS Records

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.

2001: Death of her second husband

In 2001, Paquita la del Barrio's second marriage ended with the death of her husband, marking the end of their 31-year union.

2008: Duet with Ricardo Arjona and performances

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.

2008: Interview with The Miami Herald

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.

2010: Participation in Haiti earthquake benefit

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".

2013: Grammy nomination for Romeo Y Su Nieta

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).

2016: "Trajectory Award" at the Premio Lo Nuestro

In 2016, Paquita la del Barrio was honored with the "Trajectory Award" at the Premio Lo Nuestro.

2021: Billboard Music Awards incident

During the 2021 Billboard Music Awards, when Bad Bunny helped Paquita with her microphone, she jokingly called him "inútil" (good-for-nothing).

2021: Candidacy for State Congress in Veracruz

In 2021, Paquita la del Barrio ran for State Congress in Veracruz for the Citizens' Movement party, marking her entry into politics.

2021: Lifetime Achievement Award at Billboard Latin Music Awards

Paquita la del Barrio received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2021 Billboard Latin Music Awards, recognizing her long-lasting impact in music.

February 17, 2025: Death of Paquita la del Barrio

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.