Johnny Rodriguez, Pioneering Mexican-American Country Star, Has Died at 73

Johnny Rodriguez, a pioneering musician in Tejano and outlaw country music, has passed away at the age of 73 after entering hospice care. The announcement of his death came from his daughter, fellow musician Aubry Rodriguez, in a Facebook statement that was posted yesterday.

“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,” Aubry announced. “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.”

Aubry went on to say that she and her family are “grateful for the outpouring of love and support from fans, colleagues, and friends during this time of grief.” She has asked for privacy during this time.

Johnny Rodriguez Boasted an Incredible Career

Johnny Rodriguez was best known for blending Tejano music and Texas-specific country music styles into his music. Active from the 1970s up until his death, Rodriguez had a talent for blending Latin sounds and the Spanish language into his country tunes.

Rodriguez’s golden era was between the 1970s and 1980s. During that period, he was one of the genre’s most successful artists. Just a few of his smash hits include “Desperado”, “You Always Come Back To Hurting Me”, and Foolin’”. In total, he produced six no. 1 hits in the country music world.

Despite having a troubled childhood bolstered by the death of his father and a stint in prison, Rodriguez overcame the odds and launched his career by performing regularly at the Alamo Village. He was discovered by Tom T. Hall and Bobby Bare, following a performance in 1971. He was only 21 years old when he moved to Nashville with little more than a guitar and $14 in cash. What an inspiration!

Rodriguez would later front Hall’s band. Just a few months later, he would nab a recording contract with Mercury and launch his incredible solo career. He has since been inducted into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame in Carthage. He has also been honored by three United States presidents for his contributions to the arts. Rodriguez is widely considered to be the first major Mexican-American singer in country music.

We wish Rodriguez’s family and fans nothing but the best during this difficult time. And here’s hoping he will be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame soon.

Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

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