News of legendary country music singer Johnny Rodriguez’s death broke over the weekend, shaking up the country world.
Among those heartbroken by the news was another iconic singer, George Strait. Strait took to social media on Monday to remember his friend.
“Norma and I are so sad about Johnny’s passing,” Strait wrote. “He was an inspiration to me from the beginning. Being from South Texas myself, it gave me so much hope knowing that he had become such a huge success … that maybe there was hope for a guy like me. What a great talent he was. God bless his family, friends and fans. You’ll be missed, amigo.”
Rodriguez reportedly died Friday at home. He was 73.
“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,” his daughter, Aubry Rodriguez, wrote on Facebook. “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.”
Rodriguez rose to fame in the 1970s and was one of the first Hispanic stars in the country music. A native of Texas, Rodriguez put together a list of hit songs including “Pass Me by (If You’re Only Passing Through) in 1973. He also had hits in “Ridin’ My Thump to Mexico,” “That’s the Way Love Goes,” I Just Can’t Get Her Out of My mind,” Just Get Up and Close the Door,” and “Love Put a Song in My Heart.”
Taste of Country noted that Rodriguez was nominated for CMA Male Vocalist of the Year and Single Record of the Year in 1973.
The site said that Rodriguez was inducted into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame in 2007.