Mexican Music Icon Juan Gabriel Passes Away; Family, Recording Academy Release Statements

The New York Times reports that Mexican music icon Alberto Aguilera Valadez "Juan Gabriel" passed away suddenly over the weekend. He was 66. Juan Gabriel was a giant in the music industry and is as popular now as ever. As importantly, Juan Gabriel was a beloved father and grandfather. He is survived by his sons and grandchildren.

Juan Gabriel's son Ivan Aguilera stated, "My father's untimely passing is a tragic loss for all of us, his family, colleagues, and fans alike. We give heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of condolences we have received from around the world including from President Enrique Pena Nieto. We know that our father will miss entertaining his countless fans, who brought him tremendous joy in life."

The family will release further details regarding Juan Gabriel's passing in the coming days. In the meantime, the family respectfully asks Juan Gabriel's fans and the worldwide media to allow them this very brief window to mourn the loss of Juan Gabriel.

Yesterday, The Latin Recording Academy released the following statement on his passing:
August 28, 2016

With a heavy heart and profound sense of nostalgia, The Latin Recording Academy mourns the passing of Alberto Aguilera Valadez, our beloved Juan Gabriel. He left us at an early age, but after almost five decades of enormous creativity. His musical legacy is much more than one or hundreds of songs; he composed philosophy. In addition, he carried out heartfelt philanthropy with orphans of his native Ciudad Juárez. He broke taboos, devoured stages and conquered diverse audiences. In 2009, the Latin Academy named him Person of the Year, and honored him for his career and social work during a star-studded gala. The voice of the Mexican icon will resonate forever in all those who knew him, as we continue to dance to his music and appreciate his art. Rest in peace, Juan Gabriel.

Gabriel Abaroa
President/CEO
The Latin Recording Academy

Comunicado de La Academia Latina de la Grabación sobre Juan Gabriel
28 de agosto de 2016

Con el corazón lleno de tristeza y a partir de hoy nostálgico, La Academia Latina de la Grabación se viste de luto por el fallecimiento de Alberto Aguilera Valadez, nuestro querido Juan Gabriel. Nos ha dejado a una temprana edad, pero después de casi cinco décadas de enorme creatividad. Su legado musical es mucho más que una o cientos de canciones; este hombre compuso filosofía. Además, llevó a cabo una hermosa tarea filantrópica con los huérfanos de su natal Ciudad Juárez. Rompió tabúes, devoró escenarios y conquistó públicos diversos. En el 2009, la Academia Latina le eligió como Persona del Año, y durante una gala pletórica de estrellas fue homenajeado por su trayectoria y labor social. La voz del ícono mexicano resonará para siempre en todos aquellos que le conocimos y que seguiremos bailando al ritmo de su música y apreciando su arte. Descansa en paz, Juan Gabriel.

Gabriel Abaroa Jr.
Presidente/CEO
La Academia Latina de la Grabación