SAN ANTONIO — Talented and beloved country music sensation Johnny Rodriguez, known for his Mexican American roots and legendary hits during the 1970s, has passed away at the age of 73. Renowned for songs that climbed the charts like “I Just Can’t Get Her Out of My Mind,” “Ridin’ My Thumb to Mexico,” and “That’s the Way Love Goes,” Rodriguez’s music left a lasting imprint on the industry.
Rodriguez died on Friday in San Antonio due to health challenges, a fact confirmed by his daughter, Aubry Rodriguez. She shared on social media that her father passed away peacefully, with family by his side. Her tribute described him not only as an iconic musician but also as a cherished husband, father, uncle, and brother, with a warm, humorous, and compassionate spirit that touched those around him.
In 1972, the Academy of Country Music Awards recognized Rodriguez as the most promising male vocalist. His debut album, “Introducing Johnny Rodriguez,” was nominated for album of the year in 1973, marking the start of numerous hits that would see more than a dozen of his albums and singles reach the Top 10.
Sadly, Rodriguez later acknowledged that the overuse of drugs and alcohol led to a decline in his professional life.
Born in Sabinal, Texas, a small town set 60 miles west of San Antonio and 90 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, Rodriguez’s roots were grounded in the rich cultural landscape of Texas.
In 1999, Rodriguez stood trial but was acquitted of murder after a tragic incident the previous year in which he fatally shot an acquaintance, whom he mistook for a burglar, at his mother’s home in Sabinal. The acquaintance, 26-year-old Israel Borrego, passed away a day after the shooting.
Despite the challenges he faced, Rodriguez continued his musical journey with performances across South Texas. In 2007, his contributions to music were celebrated with an induction into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame.