Juan Gabriel mourned by fans with music, tears, tributes

From Hollywood to Westchester, fans honored the legendary life of Mexican superstar Juan Gabriel with music, candles and flowers.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame became a shrine to the late singer-songwriter on Monday, with large floral arrangements, balloons and candles lining the street.

• RELATED VIDEO: Juan Gabriel fans sing his songs at mortuary in Westchester

The Hollywood Historic Trust, an arm of the Chamber of Commerce, placed flowers at Gabriel’s star at 7060 Hollywood Blvd. at 10 a.m. The massive memorial to the singer continued to grow throughout the day.

Ana Martinez, a spokesperson for the Walk of Fame, posted a simple message on Twitter saying “may he rest in peace.”

• RELATED PHOTOS: Legendary Mexican singer Juan Gabriel dies at 66

Miles away in Westchester, a massive crowd of fans sang tributes outside the Malinow and Silverman Mortuary on Osage Avenue, where Gabriel’s body was taken after he died Sunday at his home in Santa Monica. He had been in Southern California after performing Friday at the Forum in Inglewood.

Known for his powerful ballads such as “Hasta Que Te Conocí” (Until I Met You) and “Querida” (Dear), Gabriel was beloved across the world, including here in the United States.

• RELATED PHOTOS: Fans gather at Juan Gabriel’s Santa Monica home

“For over 40 years, Juan Gabriel brought his beloved Mexican music to millions, transcending borders and generations,” President Barack Obama said Monday. “To so many Mexican-Americans, Mexicans and people all over the world, his music sounds like home. With his romantic lyrics, passionate performances and signature style, Juan Gabriel captivated audiences and inspired countless young musicians.”

• RELATED VIDEO: See Juan Gabriel perform at the Rose Bowl in 1993

Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto paid tribute to Gabriel on Twitter Sunday, saying his voice and talent “represented Mexico.”

“His music is a legacy for the world,” he added.

Born in 1950, in Parácuaro, Michoacán, Gabriel performed on street corners as a poor teenager. The singer, whose real name was Alberto Aguilera Valadez, would eventually become one of the biggest names in Latin music.

He went on to compose more than 1,500 songs during his lengthy career. In additional to his chart-topping singles, he was also known for his commanding stage presence and flamboyant costumes.

Advertisement

The singer’s agent, Arturo De la Mora, said he died “peacefully,” without giving further details.

The cause of death had not yet been officially determined, according to John Kades of the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner.

Juan Gabriel was 66.