Mexico´s musical icon Vicente Fernández has died

Legendary actor and singer Vicente Fernández, also known as ´The king of Rancheras´ has died. According to a statement released on his official Instagram profile by Fernandez´s family, the beloved Mexican icon died at 6:15 a.m. in a hospital in his native state of Jalisco.

“It was an honor and great pride for him to share his great musical career with everyone and to give everything for his audience. Thank you for continuing to applaud, thank you for continuing to sing. #ChenteSigueSiendoElRey.” Funeral plans were not announced.

Fernández was hospitalized after he suffered a fall at his ranch Los Tres Potrillos in August. Since then, the singer´s health turned to the worse. While in the hospital, Fernandez had been diagnosed with Guillain–Barré syndrome, a rare disorder in which your body’s immune system attacks your nerves.

“One of the most important artists of Mexican popular culture, the undisputed symbol of ranchera music, dies. A million mariachis accompany you on your way, ” Alejandra Frausto, Mexico’s culture secretary, said on Twitter.

Fernández sold more than 70 million records and appeared in more than 30 films. In 1998, Fernández received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He won three Grammys and eight Latin Grammys among other honors.

Fernández was known for hits like “El Rey”, “Volver, Volver,” “Por Tu Maldito Amor,” “Hermoso Cariño” and “Urge,” which became familiar not only in Mexico but also across the Spanish-speaking world and U.S Hispanics.

Vicente Fernández was born on February 17, 1940 in Huentitán El Alto, in Jalisco, Mexico.