Legendary Mexican singer Vicente Fernandez dead at 81

GUADALAJARA, Mexico — Legendary Mexican singer Vicente Fernández, known as “Rey de la Música Ranchera,” died Sunday in a hospital in Guadalajara, according to a post on his official Instagram account. He was 81.

>> PHOTOS: Vicente Fernandez through the years

Fernández had been in poor health since August when he suffered a cervical spine injury after a fall. The injury forced the mariachi legend to be placed on a ventilator.

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“It was an honor and a great pride to share with everyone his great musical career,” Fernández’s post read. “He gave everything to his audience.”

According to The Associated Press, Fernández sold more than 65 million albums, starred in more than 35 movies and won many awards, including three Grammys and eight Latin Grammys.

The Houston Chronicle in October 1991 called Fernández the (Frank) Sinatra of ranchera music.

“He’s the supreme singer; the man who does things his way,” the newspaper reported.

>> Iconic Mexican singer Vicente Fernandez on ventilator after suffering fall

Fernández was known affectionately to his fans as “Chente” and delighted them with his distinctive charro outfit, wide sombrero and mariachi ensemble, KABC reported.

Fernández -- who was also known as El Ídolo de México (the Mexican Idol) was born and raised in Guadalajara, where he began his musical career as a street performer, People reported. He was signed by Mexico’s CBS Records in 1966, the magazine reported.

In 1971, he released his first film, “Tacos al carbón” People reported. His movies included his mariachi songs and covers of rancheras by José Alfredo Jiménez and Javier Solís.

He formally retired from performing in 2016, KTLA reported. He came out of retirement three years later to give a special performance during the Latin Grammy Awards with his son, Alejandro Fernández, and his grandson, Alex Fernández, the television station reported.

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Photos: Vicente Fernandez through the years Here are some memorable photos of Mexican singer Vicente Fernandez through the years. (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte)

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