A Tribute from the King of Country to a Texas Trailblazer
Country music icon George Strait is paying heartfelt tribute to a man he calls a true inspiration—Johnny Rodriguez, the legendary artist who passed away last week at the age of 73.
Rodriguez was more than just a chart-topping singer in the 1970s. He was a groundbreaking figure, one of the first Hispanic artists to rise to national fame in country music, blazing a trail that inspired generations to follow. With his smooth voice and heartfelt delivery, he captured hearts across the nation and earned his place in the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame as well as a CMA Award—a testament to his immense talent and influence.
But for Strait, Rodriguez’s legacy goes beyond awards and accolades. He was a beacon of hope.
In a statement posted to his Instagram Stories on Monday, May 12, Strait reflected on how deeply Rodriguez impacted his own life and career. He shared that he and his wife, Norma, have been “so sad” since hearing the news of his passing.
“He was an inspiration to me from the beginning,” Strait wrote.
“Being from South Texas myself, it gave me so much hope knowing that he had become such a huge success,” he continued. “That maybe there was hope for a guy like me. What a great talent he was. God bless his family, friends and fans. You’ll be missed, amigo.”
Rodriguez made his first big mark in 1973 with the Top 10 hit “Pass Me By (If You’re Only Passing Through)”—a song that would begin a string of successes, including three consecutive No. 1 singles and numerous chart appearances throughout the 1980s. His career helped redefine what it meant to be a country star from Texas, especially for Latino artists.
When George Strait began his own journey in the early ’80s, he not only followed in Rodriguez’s footsteps—he soared, eventually achieving a staggering 44 No. 1 hits on the Billboard country chart, more than any artist in history. Yet, even with all his success, Strait never forgot those who paved the way.
In honoring Johnny Rodriguez, Strait reminds us all of the quiet heroes—those who spark dreams in others simply by daring to follow their own. Johnny wasn’t just a country star; to George Strait, he was proof that dreams could come true, even for a kid from South Texas.
Rest in peace, Johnny Rodriguez. Your music—and your legacy—live on.
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