Latin-American star Juan Gabriel, scheduled to play at Fresno’s Save Mart Center in September, has died at the age of 66. The singer-songwriter was well known in the Latin-American community for his unique style.
The star was pronounced dead at his home in Santa Monica on Sunday afternoon according to his publicist. Gabriel passed away due to natural causes, Los Angeles County Coroner spokeswoman Selena Barros said.
The six-time Grammy nominee was considered Mexico’s top-selling artist with over 100 million album sales. His largest hit was “¿Por Que Me Haces Llorar?” which translates to “Why Do You Make Me Cry?”
His music style ranged from mariachi and pop to rock and disco which is why his fan base grew so large. He even had experience in the film industry, where he made his acting debut in the 1975 film, “Rural Chivalry.”
Gabriel began his career at age 21 when he signed a recording contract with RCA Records. His fame grew over time as he released 15 albums and recorded over 1,500 songs over the course of 45 years.
Gabriel’s death caused a media storm, and his name was trending on Twitter Sunday evening. His fans shared kind words about how the star influenced their lives.
Gabriel left such a stamp on Latin culture that Mexico’s President Enrique Peña Nieto tweeted his condolances, calling him one of the country’s “greatest musical icons”
“Una voz y un talento que representaban a México. Su música, un legado para el mundo. Se ha ido muy pronto. Que descanse en Paz,” Nieto wrote.
The Tweet translates to “One voice and one talent who represents Mexico. His music, a legacy for the world. He has left too soon. Rest in peace.”
Gabriel was in the midst of his MeXXico Es Todos tour. It consisted of over 20 dates, and it was scheduled to run through December.
There’s been no announcement concerning ticket’s sold for future tours.