George Strait Grieves Loss Of Fellow Country Star: 'An Inspiration To Me'

George Strait shared a heartfelt statement as he mourns the loss of fellow country star Johnny Rodriguez. He was 73.

Strait, 72, said he and his wife of more than 50 years, Norma Strait, “are so sad” about Rodriguez’ loss. The late country artist’s daughter shared a statement to confirm that Rodriguez “left us peacefully…surrounded by family” on Friday (May 9). Rodriguez was born in December 1951 in Sabinal, Texas. He became known for "Pass Me By (If You're Only Passing Through)," "Ridin' My Thumb to Mexico," and "I Just Can't Get Her Out of My Mind,” among other songs throughout his career.

“Norma and I are so sad about Johnny's passing. He was an inspiration to me from the beginning,” Strait wrote in his statement on Monday evening (May 12). “Being from South Texas myself, it gave me so much hope knowing that he had become such a huge success…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. -gs”

Rodriguez’ daughter, Aubry Rodriguez, said in her statement on Friday that “it is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Johnny Rodriguez… 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. 

“We are immensely grateful for the outpouring of love and support from fans, colleagues, and friends during this time of grief,” she said. “While the world has lost an extraordinary talent, we have lost someone irreplaceable - and we ask for privacy as we navigate this painful moment together.”