Mr. Rodriguez, who was named the most promising male vocalist at the 1972 Academy of Country Music Awards, was acquitted in the shooting death an acquaintance in 1999.

Dad was not only a legendary musician whose artistry touched millions around the world, but also a deeply loved husband, father, uncle and brother,” Rodriguez’s daughter, Aubry, shared on social media.

Johnny Rodriguez, one of country music’s first Hispanic stars and known for 1970s hits “Ridin’ My Thumb to Mexico” and “That’s the Way Love Goes,” has died at the age of 73. Rodriguez died on Friday after entering hospice care.