Juan Gabriel: Billboard ranks 20 best songs of all time

Billboard Latin and Billboard Español staff have published a ranked list of Juan Gabriel’s 20 best songs to commemorate the 10th anniversary of his death on August 28. The selection highlights the career of the Mexican singer-songwriter, born Alberto Aguilera Valadez and known as the Divo de Juárez, who was recognized for his theatrical performances and emotionally direct songwriting. The list spans his diverse catalog, ranging from devastating ballads and mariachi-fueled anthems to pop gems.

The ranking includes several tracks that achieved significant commercial success on the Billboard charts. Both "Te Sigo Amando" and "Abrázame Muy Fuerte" reached the No. 1 position on the Hot Latin Songs chart. Other entries such as "Hasta Que Te Conocí," "Querida," and "Amor Eterno" are noted as essential standards in Latin music. Additionally, "Así Fue" has experienced a viral resurgence in social media trends and soccer celebrations leading up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Juan Gabriel’s influence extended to his work as a composer for other prominent artists. He supplied classic songs to voices including Isabel Pantoja, Lucha Villa, and Ana Gabriel. A key highlight of the Billboard report is his extensive collaboration with Rocío Dúrcal. He composed "Fue Un Placer Conocerte" for Dúrcal’s 1977 album Canta a Juan Gabriel, Volumen 1. While the pair first performed the song live in 1978, it reached No. 10 on the Hot Latin Songs chart in 1992. The 1977 album itself reached No. 2 on the Top Latin Pop Albums chart in 1985, marking Dúrcal's first appearance on that chart.

The artist was known for transforming the stage with glittering suits and flowing shirts, combining elements of heartbreak and joy. His songwriting addressed complex dimensions of love, including devotion, betrayal, loneliness, and tenderness. This genre-fluid approach and fearless self-expression continue to impact new generations of musicians, much like the creative shifts seen when Remi Wolf Announces New Album 'Mud' for October Release. His ability to blend intimate restraint with grand vocal delivery made his work a permanent reference point in pop culture.