Vicente Fernandez: El Rey De La Música Ranchera By: Lupe Llerenas
Known as “el idolo de Mexico” (Mexico’s idol) and “el rey de Mexico” (the king of Mexico), Vicente Fernández developed ranchera music. Through the hundreds of songs that feature his voice, Vicente Fernández became a Mexican cultural icon.
On February 17, the Merican singer-songwriter and actor, who passed away in December would have turned 82years old. To honor and celebrate his legacy, I want to share why Don Chete earned the well-known respected name, “el rey de la música ranchera” aka the king of ranchera music.
In a career spanning five decades, he made a name for himself and was awarded some of the most accolades in the entertainment music business and beyond. He won eight Latin Grammys and six Premio Lo Nuestro awards. He regularly topped the charts in Billboard and was recognized for lifetime achievement awards, hall of fame honors and even a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame.
Some of Vicente Fernández’s most famous songs were “La Diferencia,” “Hermoso Cariño,” “Mujeres Divinas,” “Por Tu Maldito Amor,” and “El Rey.” These songs attracted fans far beyond Mexico and Central American countries. Songs like “Como Mexico No Hay Dos” and “Volver Volver” were extremely popular amongst Mexican immigrant communities in the US.
Fans share what Vicente Fernández meant to them.
Fernández combined his impeccable musicianship, provocative songs, and great vocals to deliver unforgettable performances. Despite his passing, he continues to be prolific, influential, and ultimately a critical player responsible for shaping the growth and development of the modern ranchera genre.
With his trademark charro outfit, wide sombrero, and impeccable backing mariachi ensemble, he performed on the world’s biggest and most prestigious stages. He headlined Mexico City’s Auditorio Nacional and the Plaza de Toros Mexico to New York City’s Madison Square Garden and Radio City Music Hall.
Vicente Fernández was not only the king of ranchera music but also an authentic icon of Latin music as a whole. He produced and sang ranchera songs for nearly half a century, garnering several numbers one hits on the Latin music charts as well as a few crossover breakthroughs that hit the mainstream market abroad. For his artistic integrity, his tireless dedication, and unending enthusiasm, Fernández will be noted in history books as one of the fundamental and influential pioneers of ranchera music and a towering figure in the evolution of regional Mexican music.
Vicente Fernández gives thanks to his fans.
Though he retired from touring in 2016, Fernández became one of his country’s most recognizable and influential cultural figures. He was influential in the way that he shaped the growth and development of ranchera music. Vicente Fernández is associated with Mexican pride and artistry around the world.
He is “el rey,” a legend, he is Vicente Fernández!
