Overview

• Johnny Rodriguez, one of country music's earliest Hispanic stars, died at age 73 on May 9, 2025, as confirmed by his daughter, Aubry Rodriguez.
• Rodriguez's music career began after he was discovered singing in jail as a teenager, leading to a Mercury Records contract and chart-topping hits in the 1970s.
• He achieved six number-one hits and 20 Top 10 songs, including classics like 'Ridin’ My Thumb to Mexico' and 'You Always Come Back (To Hurting Me).'
• Known for blending mariachi and honky-tonk influences, Rodriguez was inducted into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame in 2007 for his contributions to the genre.
• Rodriguez is survived by his daughter Aubry and second wife Debbie McNeely, with his family requesting privacy during their time of mourning.