The music world is mourning the loss of Johnny Rodriguez, a pioneering figure in country music, who passed away on May 9, 2025, at the age of 73. Rodriguez, known for his warm personality and impact on those around him, leaves behind a significant legacy as a musician, husband, father, and brother.
Born Juan Raoul Davis Rodriguez in Sabinal, Texas, on December 10, 1951, he overcame early hardships to become one of country music's first major Hispanic stars. His unique style incorporated Latin sounds and Spanish lyrics, opening doors for other Hispanic artists in the genre. Rodriguez was inducted into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame in 2007 and received the Pioneer Award from the Institute of Hispanic Culture in Houston in 2010.
Rodriguez's career included numerous Top 10 hits, including “Pass Me By (If You're Only Passing Through),” “You Always Come Back (To Hurting Me),” and “Ridin' My Thumb to Mexico”. Despite personal challenges, including a legal battle in the late 1990s, he continued to perform and record music, leaving a lasting impact on country music and its cultural landscape. His daughter, Aubry Rodriguez, announced his passing, noting that he was surrounded by family.