Juan Gabriel was a Mexican singer, songwriter, and performer who was born on January 7, 1950, in Parácuaro, Michoacán, Mexico, and passed away on August 28, 2016, in Santa Monica, California, United States. He was known for his distinctive voice and flamboyant style, which helped him become one of the most popular and beloved musicians in Mexican music history.
Gabriel was the youngest of 10 children and had a difficult childhood. His father passed away when he was young, and his mother struggled to support the family, so Gabriel had to work odd jobs to help make ends meet. Despite his challenging circumstances, he was always passionate about music and began writing songs at a young age.
Gabriel's big break came in 1971 when he was discovered by Mexican singer and actress Lola Beltrán. She helped him secure a recording contract, and he released his debut album, "El Alma Joven," the following year. The album was a huge success, and Gabriel quickly became a sensation in Mexico.
Over the course of his career, Gabriel released over 30 studio albums and sold more than 100 million records worldwide. He was known for his ability to write and perform songs in a variety of genres, including ranchera, ballads, and pop. Some of his most famous songs include "Amor Eterno," "Querida," and "Hasta Que Te Conocí."
In addition to his music career, Gabriel was also known for his philanthropy. He founded a charity organization called the Juan Gabriel Foundation, which helped support at-risk children in Mexico.
Gabriel's death in 2016 was a huge loss for the music world and his many fans. He was posthumously awarded the Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016, and his music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by people around the world.
Juan Gabriel