Country music singer dies aged 73 after being admitted to hospice care as family pay tribute
Country music star Johnny Rodriguez has died aged 73, his family have announced.
The Texas-born singer, who had a string of number one hits in the 1970s, passed away on Friday after being admitted to hospice care.
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.'
The country music pioneer had a glittering career that included six number one hits and 20 top 10s in his heyday, which was between 1973 and 1978.
His most memorable hits included Ridin' My Thumb to Mexico, That's the way Love Goes and You Always Come Back (To Hurting Me).
He was honoured by presidents George H. W. Bush, Jimmy Carter and George W. Bush during his lifetime.
The singer is credited with helping to define the genre of country music and was even was even inducted into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame.
Rodriguez was also known for being one of the first Hispanic country music stars, with his use of Spanish lyrics and sounds giving him a unique sound.
The star was born in Texas in 1951 and was captain of the football team and an altar boy during his younger years.
However, tragedy struck when his father died from cancer when he was just 16 years old, before his brother passed away the following year in a car crash.
According to The Sun, he spent time in jail and his singing was noticed by famous Texas ranger Joaquin Jackson, who recognised the talent and told his music promoter pal"Happy" Shahan.
He then got to perform at the Almo Village where Tom T. Hall and Bobby Bare noticed his voice in 1971, telling him he should move to Nashville.
He did just that aged 21 years old and signed a record deal with Mercury less than a year later.
From there, his career skyrocketed with a string of number ones and in 1979 he signed to Epic Records and worked with well-known music producer Billy Sherrill.
His last top ten singles were in 1983 - Foolin' and How Could I Love Her So Much.
However, the music came to a halt for a while in 1998 when he shot and killed a man in his home who he had mistaken for a burglar, before being acquitted on all charges by a jury.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s he continued to tour and record new material and released his first live album in 2012.
Fans of Rodriguez have rushed to social media to pay tribute, writing: '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.'
Fans of Rodriguez have rushed to social media to pay tribute, writing: 'RIP to another Texas legend
'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.'
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