Country music star Johnny Rodriguez has died at the age of 73, his family announced yesterday.

The singer, recognised as one of country music’s earliest Hispanic stars, passed away peacefully on May 9 surrounded by family.

His daughter, fellow musician Aubry Rodriguez, confirmed the news through social media.

Rodriguez was born in Sabinal, Texas in 1951 and rose to prominence in the 1970s.

During the peak of his career, he achieved remarkable success with six number one songs and a run of fifteen top 10 hits on the country music charts.

His musical talent helped define country music during that decade, with his popularity continuing well into the 1980s.

Rodriguez’s career was truly exceptional, with his first Top 10 hit being “Pass Me By (If You’re Only Passing Through)”.

He went on to release several number one hits including “You Always Come Back (To Hurting Me)”, “Ridin’ My Thumb to Mexico” and “That’s the Way Love Goes”.

In 1973, Rodriguez was nominated for the CMA’s Male Vocalist of the Year and Single Record of the Year.

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The story of Rodriguez’s big break is quite remarkable. During a teenage spell in jail, he was overheard singing by a park ranger who mentioned him to local music promoter “Happy” Shahan.

This chance encounter led to his move to Nashville at age 21, where he signed with Mercury Records and launched his successful recording career.

Rodriguez’s impact on country music was significant as one of the genre’s earliest Hispanic stars.

The Saving Country Music website paid tribute, saying: “Johnny Rodriguez helped define country music as much as anyone in the decade, and continued to mint hit songs well into the 80s.”

In 2007, he was inducted into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame.

In her statement, Aubry Rodriguez wrote: “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.”

She added that the family was “immensely grateful for the outpouring of love and support… during this time of grief.”

Rodriguez is survived by his daughter Aubry, whom he shared with his second wife, Debbie McNeely.

Reports indicate that Rodriguez had entered hospice care earlier in the week before his passing.

His family has requested privacy as they navigate this difficult time following the loss of someone they described as “irreplaceable”.