Juan Gabriel, known as el Divo de Juarez and one of Mexico’s most successful vocalist and composers, died today at his home in Santa Monica California. A six-time Grammy nominee, he was 66 years old.
An icon adored throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, Juan Gabriel died of a heart attack at 11:30 am this morning, according to members of his family.
Juan Gabriel was one of Mexico’s most prolific songwriters, with more than 1,800 songs to his name. Among some of the fans' favorites are classics like, "Por que me haces llorar?" "Hasta Que Te Conoci," and "Querida."
Juan Gabriel had just performed Saturday at the Ingelwood Forum in California as part of the “MeXXico es todo” tour, to a sell-out crowd.
Fans and fellow stars like Colombian musical icon Juanes have been posting on social media their heartfelt condolences.
Even Mexico's president, Enrique Peña Nieto sent out a tweet, saying, "a voice and a talent that represented Mexico. His music was a legacy to the world. He has gone too soon. May he rest in peace."
Born in Paracuaro, Michoacan, Juan Gabriel transcended Mexico with his music and his personality, capturing the hearts of Hispanics and non-Hispanics alike. "Juan Gabriel was the Elvis of Mexico," said journalist Amy Selwyn, a fan of the singer. "Now he has left the edifico; RIP El Cantante," she said to NBC Latino.
One fan wrote in Facebook, soon after the news came out of Juan Gabriel’s sad demise:
“I hope the neighbors don't mind Juan Gabriel playing on repeat... "Tú eres la tristeza de mis ojos, que lloran en silencio por tu adiós" ("you are the sadness in my eyes, that cry because of your goodbye."