Country music legend Johnny Rodriguez, known for his hit songs in the 1970s like “I Just Can’t Get Her Out of My Mind,” “Ridin’ My Thumb to Mexico,” and “That’s the Way Love Goes,” has passed away at the age of 73. According to his daughter, Aubry Rodriguez, he died on Friday in San Antonio from health complications. She shared on social media that he passed peacefully, 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,” she wrote.
Rodriguez earned recognition early in his career, being named the most promising male vocalist at the 1972 Academy of Country Music Awards. His debut album, Introducing Johnny Rodriguez, was nominated for album of the year in 1973, and over the years, more than a dozen of his albums and singles made it to the Top 10.
Despite his success, Rodriguez’s career faced challenges due to struggles with drugs and alcohol.
Born in Sabinal, Texas, a small town located about 60 miles from San Antonio and near the U.S.-Mexico border, Rodriguez had a complicated personal life. In 1999, he was acquitted of murder after a Texas jury ruled in his favor following an incident where he shot an acquaintance he believed was a burglar. The man, Israel Borrego, passed away a day after being shot.
Rodriguez continued performing, especially in South Texas, and in 2007, he was inducted into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame.
