Alberto Aguilera Valadez (Spanish pronunciation: [alˈβeɾto aɣiˈleɾa βalaˈðes]; January 7, 1950 – August 28, 2016), known professionally as Juan Gabriel (pronounced [ˈxwaŋ ɡaˈβɾjel] (listen)), was a Mexican singer, songwriter and actor. Colloquially nicknamed as Juanga (pronounced [ˈxwaŋɡa]) and El Divo de Juárez, Gabriel was known for his flamboyant style, which broke barriers within the Latin music market. Widely considered one of the best and most prolific Mexican composers and singers of all time, he has been called a pop icon.