The first popular Mexican American country artist, he was best known for the 1970s hits “I Just Can’t Get Her Out of My Mind” and “Ridin’ My Thumb to Mexico.”

A country music pioneer who racked up several chart-topping hits during the 1970s has died at the age of 73. Johnny Rodriguez died on Friday, May 9 “surround by family,” his daughter, Aubry Rodriguez, wrote on social media.

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.