According to his family, country music icon Johnny Rodriguez passed away at the age of 73.
After being put to hospice care, the singer, who was born in Texas and scored a series of number one singles in the 1970s, passed away on Friday.
His daughter Aubry wrote on social media: “It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Johnny Rodriguez, who left us peacefully on May 9th, surrounded by family.”
“Dad was not only a legendary musician whose artistry touched millions around the world, but also a deeply loved husband, father, uncle, and brother whose warmth, humor, and compassion shaped the lives of all who knew him.”
“While the world has lost an extraordinary talent, we have lost someone irreplaceable – and we ask for privacy as we navigate this painful moment together.”
During his peak, which spanned from 1973 to 1978, the country music pioneer had a dazzling career that included 20 top 10 successes and six number one hits.
Ridin’ My Thumb to Mexico, That’s the way Love Goes, and You Always Come Back (To Hurt Me) were some of his most well-known songs.
While the world has lost an extraordinary talent, we have lost someone irreplaceable – and we ask for privacy as we navigate this painful moment together.”
During his peak, which spanned from 1973 to 1978, the country music pioneer had a dazzling career that included 20 top 10 successes and six number one hits.
Ridin’ My Thumb to Mexico, That’s the way Love Goes, and You Always Come Back (To Hurt Me) were some of his most well-known songs.
Source: Freepik
During his lifetime, Presidents Jimmy Carter, George W. Bush, and George H. W. Bush all paid tribute to him.
The singer was inducted into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame and is recognised for having contributed to the definition of the country music genre.
Rodriguez’s usage of Spanish lyrics and melodies gave him a distinctive style, and he was regarded as one of the first Hispanic country music artists.
Born in 1951 in Texas, the star spent his early years as an altar boy and as the football team’s captain.
But tragedy struck when his sibling perished in a vehicle accident the next year and his father died of cancer when he was only sixteen.
The Sun claims that while he was incarcerated, renowned Texas ranger Joaquin Jackson heard his singing, identified the potential, and notified his music promoter friend “Happy” Shahan.
After that, he had the opportunity to perform in the Almo Village, where Bobby Bare and Tom T. Hall heard his voice in 1971 and advised him to relocate to Nashville.
At the age of 21, he accomplished this, and less than a year later, he secured a record contract with Mercury.
Following a run of number ones, his career took off, and in 1979 he signed with Epic Records and collaborated with renowned music producer Billy Sherrill.
How Could I Love Her So Much and Foolin’ were his final top ten songs in 1983.
He shot and murdered a guy in his house in 1998 after mistaking him for a burglar, but the music stopped for a while after a jury cleared him of all charges.
He kept touring and recording new music throughout the 1990s and 2000s, and in 2012 he released his first live album.
Rodriguez’s admirers have flocked to social media to offer condolences, posting: “RIP to another Texas legend.”
“Johnny Rodriguez passed away today. With his smooth voice, heartfelt lyrics, and fearless blending of country and Latin influences, Johnny helped shape the sound of a generation. His songs were timeless and his impact undeniable. Rest easy, Johnny.”
“RIP Johnny Rodriguez… another country great is gone.”
Years ago I opened up for Johnny Rodriguez at California State University of Bakersfield he will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayers for his family and loved ones may he rest in peace.”
“I got the privilege of meeting Johnny Rodriguez last year when I went to visit my daughter in Nashville. Nice gentleman. RIP Johnny.”
“RIP Johnny Rodriguez. Great singer!”
“I’m so damn bummed hearing about Johnny Rodriguez passing.”
Him and Freddy Fender were trailblazers in the country music scene and did a lot of real good stuff over the years and the Latin influences were only part of the voice of these two. Tonight we’re blasting Rodriguez.”
