Mexican music icon Paquita la del Barrio dead at 77

Veteran Mexican musician, Paquita la del Barrio passed away at her home in Veracruz, Mexico at the age of 77.

The news was shared by her team on her Instagram page, however no cause of death was provided.

A statement was issued by Mexico City’s Department of Culture in appreciation of the singer, "[She] left an indelible mark with her unmistakable voice and unique style, [her music] transcended generations and became anthems of female empowerment and social criticism."

She became a household name in Mexico in the 1980s where she stood out for the anger she expressed against the men who had broken her heart.

Her songs were often based on her real life experiences. When she was a teenager, she had eloped with a man who was 20 years older than her. After having two children together, she found out that he had been hiding a second family.

"I've suffered a lot. It's difficult because the heart goes where it wants," she said previously in an interview, "Those feelings are what guide people to my music."

Reflecting on her music in another interview, she had stated, ''We Mexicans have this machismo situation. Women are always hurt by what men do to them. I don't sing what others sing. I sing the truth, even if the gentlemen don't like it.''