Admirers of Juan Gabriel from Mexico and the United States gathered in Ciudad Juárez on Friday to mark ten years since his death.
Fans crossed the border to attend tribute events and a memorial mass for the singer, known as the Divo of Juárez, saying his music and legacy will remain active for generations.
Catalina Albardín traveled from Florida in the United States with her father, Ramón, to participate in the tributes to Alberto Aguilera Valadez, better known as Juan Gabriel. Albardín said listening to his songs brought great emotion and made her feel closer to Mexico, her family, and connected with love.
Ciudad Juárez resident María del Socorro Núñez Domínguez noted that despite ten years having passed, Juan Gabriel remains present among his admirers. She said that while a decade without him physically has flown by, he is always in their hearts, minds, and daily lives.
Núñez Domínguez added that she has introduced her grandchildren to his music, emphasizing that the singer gave Ciudad Juárez international recognition.
Border tributes and family memories
Conny Mendoza traveled from Mexico City to the border city to remember the singer and join in the tributes, something she said she tries to do every year. Mendoza said she was happy to be there to honor what he left behind and to thank the people of Juárez for receiving visitors with open arms.
Mendoza said Juan Gabriel's songs represent personal and family experiences that will leave a lasting mark for decades, adding that generations of fans will never forget him.
A lasting musical legacy
Juan Gabriel died on August 28, 2016, in Santa Monica, California, at the age of 66. Ten years after his passing, he continues to occupy a central place in popular Mexican music. His career included writing songs for more than 200 artists and selling over 30 million records, establishing him as one of the country's most influential performers and songwriters.
Ciudad Juárez played a key role in his career as the place where he grew up, studied music, and launched his stage performance. Born in 1950 in Parácuaro, in the western state of Michoacán, he found his footing on stage in Juárez, leading to his enduring public identity as the Divo of Juárez.
The municipality declared him a favorite son for his career and for bringing international prestige to the city. Local authorities and associates emphasized that Juan Gabriel maintained a close bond with Juárez throughout his life, supporting local projects and placing the city at the heart of his public persona.
