Johnny Rodriguez, a trailblazing Mexican American country music star whose folksy storytelling propelled him to fame in the 1970s, has died, according to reports. He was 73.

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.”

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.