History of Vicente Fernández in Timeline
"El Rey de la Música Ranchera," Vicente Fernández Gómez, was a legendary Mexican cultural icon celebrated for his contributions to ranchera music and film. With a career spanning decades, Fernández transitioned from humble beginnings as a street performer to a venerated artist known by monikers such as "Chente" and "El Charro de Huentitán." His prolific discography encompasses over 100 albums, and his filmography boasts over 30 films. Fernández's musical legacy is characterized by his powerful vocals in rancheras, waltzes, and other beloved Mexican classics, solidifying his enduring impact on Mexican music and culture.
1929: Beginning of PRI Rule in Mexico
The Partido Revolucionario Institucional (PRI) came to power in Mexico in 1929.
February 1940: Early Life and Musical Influences
At a young age, around 6 or 7, Vicente Fernández developed a passion for music after watching films featuring Pedro Infante and Jorge Negrete. He received a guitar at 8 and began learning folk music, setting the stage for his future career.
February 1940: Birth of Vicente Fernández
Vicente Fernández was born in February 1940, in the village of Huentitán El Alto, Jalisco, Mexico.
December 1963: Marriage, Fatherhood, and Loss
December 1963 marked a significant period in Vicente Fernández's life. He married Maria del Refugio Abarca Villaseñor, and they welcomed their first son, Vicente Jr., who was born prematurely. Tragically, this joy was overshadowed by the loss of Fernández's mother to cancer the same year.
December 1963: Marriage to María del Refugio Abarca "Cuquita"
On December 27, 1963 Vicente Fernández married María del Refugio Abarca, known as "Cuquita," whom he met in his hometown. Cuquita was the sister of a close friend. They had three sons: Vicente Jr., Gerardo, and Alejandro. The couple adopted Alejandra, his niece, as their daughter.
1965: Move to Mexico City and Early Career Challenges
In 1965, Vicente Fernández relocated to Mexico City to pursue his musical aspirations. Initially facing difficulties breaking into the industry due to the dominance of Javier Solís, he persevered, performing on the radio and eventually landing his big break.
April 1966: Breakthrough in Music Career
Following the untimely death of singer Javier Solís in April 1966, Vicente Fernández's music career gained momentum. He secured his first record deal with CBS Records of Mexico and began releasing successful albums, establishing himself as a rising star in the industry.
1971: Film Debut in "Tacos al Carbón"
Vicente Fernández made his film debut in 1971 with "Tacos al Carbón."
1972: Creation of "Volver Volver"
Fernando Z. Maldonado composed the iconic song "Volver Volver" in 1972, a song that would later become synonymous with Vicente Fernández's career and gain international recognition.
1973: Rise to Prominence in Ranchera Music
The year 1973 marked a turning point for Vicente Fernández. Following the death of ranchera icon José Alfredo Jiménez, Fernández stepped into the spotlight, becoming a leading figure in the genre with hit albums such as "El Rey," "El Hijo del Pueblo," and "Para Recordar."
1974: Debut as Film Producer with "El Hijo del Pueblo"
Vicente Fernández took on the role of film producer for the first time in 1974 with "El Hijo del Pueblo."
1976: "Volver Volver" Propels Fernández to Stardom
The release of "Volver Volver" in 1976 catapulted Vicente Fernández to superstardom. Originally written in 1972 by Fernando Z. Maldonado, the song became his signature tune, achieving widespread acclaim and cementing his status as a musical icon across the American continent.
1976: Starring Role in "La Ley del Monte"
Vicente Fernández landed his first starring film role in "La Ley del Monte" in 1976.
1983: Record-Breaking Album Sales
In 1983, Vicente Fernández achieved a significant milestone with his album "15 Grandes con el Numero Uno." This landmark release became the first in his career to surpass one million copies sold, solidifying his position as a top-selling artist.
1984: Triumphant Concert at Plaza de Toros México
Vicente Fernández's popularity reached new heights in 1984 with a historic concert at the Plaza de Toros México. The event drew an astounding crowd of 54,000 people, a testament to his immense appeal and status as a beloved performer.
1987: International Tour Expansion
Vicente Fernández expanded his touring horizons beyond the United States and Mexico in 1987, embarking on his first tour of Bolivia and Colombia. This marked a significant step in his international career, introducing his music to new audiences.
1989: First Billboard and Univision Latin Music Award Win
Fernández first won the Billboard and Univision Latin Music Award for Mexican Regional Male Artist of the Year in 1989.
1990: Release of Vicente Fernandez y las clásicas de José Alfredo Jiménez
In 1990, Fernández released the album Vicente Fernandez y las clásicas de José Alfredo Jiménez, a tribute to José Alfredo Jiménez, a prominent Mexican songwriter.
1990: Release of "Las clásicas de José Alfredo Jiménez"
Vicente Fernández paid homage to ranchera legend José Alfredo Jiménez with the release of his album "Las clásicas de José Alfredo Jiménez" in 1990.
1991: Acclaim as the "Mexican Sinatra"
By 1991, Vicente Fernández's international fame had grown to the point where the U.S. press bestowed upon him the moniker of the "Mexican Sinatra." This comparison to the legendary crooner highlighted his extraordinary vocal talents and enduring appeal.
1991: Final Film Appearance in "Mi Querido Viejo"
Vicente Fernández's final film appearance was in 1991's "Mi Querido Viejo." Following this, he shifted his focus solely to music.
1993: Fifth Billboard and Univision Latin Music Award Win
By 1993, Fernández had one the Billboard and Univision Latin Music Award for Mexican Regional Male Artist of the Year five times.
1993: Release of "Lástima que seas ajena"
Vicente Fernández released the album "Lástima que seas ajena" in 1993.
1995: Release of "Aunque me duela el alma"
Vicente Fernández released the album "Aunque me duela el alma" in 1995.
November 1998: Induction into the Billboard's Latin Music Hall of Fame and Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
In November 1998, Fernández was recognized for his contributions to music, receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and being inducted into Billboard's Latin Music Hall of Fame.
1998: Kidnapping of Vicente Jr.
Tragedy struck the Fernández family in 1998 when Vicente Jr., Vicente Fernández's eldest son, was kidnapped. The ordeal lasted for 121 days and involved a harrowing ransom negotiation. Vicente Jr. was eventually released after a substantial payment was made, but not without enduring the trauma of having two fingers amputated.
1998: Release of Ranchera Classics
Vicente Fernández released several albums in 1998, including "Mujeres divinas," "Acá entre nos," "Me voy a quitar de en medio," and "La mentira," all of which became instant classics, further solidifying his place in the pantheon of ranchera music.
2000: End of First Period of PRI Rule
The first period of PRI rule in Mexico ended in 2000.
2000: Performance at the U.S. Republican National Convention
Vicente Fernández was invited to sing "Cielito Lindo" at the U.S. Republican National Convention in Philadelphia in 2000.
2001: "Lazos Invencibles" Tour with Alejandro Fernández
Vicente Fernández embarked on the "Lazos Invencibles" tour alongside his son, Alejandro Fernández, in 2001. The tour was a testament to their shared musical heritage and allowed fans to witness the powerful synergy between father and son on stage.
2002: Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year and 35th Anniversary in Entertainment
The Latin Recording Academy named Fernández Person of the Year in 2002. This coincided with his 35th anniversary in the entertainment industry, by which point he had sold over 50 million records. He was also inducted into the International Latin Music Hall of Fame.
2002: Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Recovery
Vicente Fernández battled prostate cancer in 2002 and successfully overcame the disease.
2005: Arena in Guadalajara Named After Vicente Fernández
In 2005, an arena in Guadalajara was named in honor of Vicente Fernández. The arena was built by Fernández's own company.
2006: Release of Platinum-Certified "La tragedia del vaquero"
Vicente Fernández continued to achieve commercial success with the release of his album "La tragedia del vaquero" in 2006. The album received platinum certification in the United States, underscoring his enduring popularity.
2007: Latin Grammy Win for "Para Siempre"
Vicente Fernández's 2007 album, "Para Siempre," earned him a Latin Grammy Award, adding to his growing list of accolades. This recognition highlighted his continued relevance and influence in the Latin music industry.
July 2008: Vicente Fernández Day in New Mexico
On July 16, 2008, New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson declared June 12th to be Vicente Fernández Day in the state.
2008: Sentencing of Kidnappers
In 2008, justice was served when the individuals responsible for the kidnapping of Vicente Jr. were apprehended and sentenced to 50 years in prison. This brought a sense of closure to a dark chapter in the Fernández family's life.
2008: Grammy and Latin Grammy Wins for "Primera Fila"
Vicente Fernández's album "Primera Fila," released in 2008, garnered significant acclaim, earning him both a Grammy and a Latin Grammy Award. The album's success was further evidenced by its impressive chart performance, spending seven consecutive weeks at the top of the Billboard charts.
February 2009: Record-Breaking Performance at Mexico City's Zócalo
In February 2009, Vicente Fernández etched his name in music history with a legendary performance at Mexico City's Zócalo. The concert drew an unprecedented crowd of nearly 220,000 people, setting a record for attendance and solidifying his status as a cultural icon.
September 2010: Release of "El Hombre Que Más Te Amó" and Latin Grammy Win
Vicente Fernández's album "El Hombre Que Más Te Amó," which he produced himself, was released in September 2010. The album's critical and commercial success was further cemented when it earned him another Latin Grammy Award, demonstrating his mastery of the ranchera genre.
2010: First Grammy Award Win
Fernández won his first Grammy Award in 2010 for Best Regional Mexican Album for his record "Necesito de Tí".
2010: Participation in "Somos El Mundo 25 Por Haiti"
In a display of solidarity and compassion, Vicente Fernández joined forces with 50 Latin singers in 2010 to record "Somos El Mundo 25 Por Haiti." This cover version of "We Are the World" aimed to raise funds and awareness for the victims of the devastating earthquake that struck Haiti that year.
October 2011: Pan American Games Opening Ceremony and Budweiser Partnership
Vicente Fernández participated in the opening ceremony of the 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara. He also renewed a partnership with Budweiser in October 2011 to support Hispanic American students through the Hispanic Scholarship Fund.
November 2011: Release of Self-Produced Album "Otra Vez"
Vicente Fernández continued to explore his creative vision by producing his album "Otra Vez," released in November 2011. This demonstrated his enduring passion for music-making and his commitment to artistic control.
February 8, 2012: Vicente Fernández Announces Retirement
On February 8, 2012, Vicente Fernández surprised fans by announcing his retirement from stage performances during a press conference. He clarified that his decision was not health-related, but rather a desire to enjoy the fruits of his labor. He assured fans that he would continue recording albums.
2012: Key to the City of Chicago and Street Renaming
Chicago awarded Fernández the key to the city in 2012, also renaming West 26th Street in the Little Village neighborhood in his honor. The city also celebrates "Vicente Fernandez Week" annually from October 20th to the 27th.
2012: Liver Tumor Removal and Transplant Refusal
In 2012, Vicente Fernández had a tumor surgically removed from his liver. He chose to forgo a liver transplant.
2012: Collaboration with Tony Bennett and Release of "Hoy"
In 2012, Vicente Fernández recorded "Return to Me" with Tony Bennett for Bennett's album "Viva Duets," with Bennett singing in Spanish. The recording took place at Fernández's ranch in Guadalajara. The same year, Fernández released his album "Hoy."
2012: PRI Returns to Power in Mexico
The Partido Revolucionario Institucional (PRI) returned to power in Mexico in 2012.
November 28, 2013: Release of Autobiography "Pero Sigo Siendo el Rey"
On November 28, 2013, Vicente Fernández launched his autobiography titled "Pero Sigo Siendo el Rey" (But I Remain the King). The book offered fans a glimpse into his life and career with a collection of anecdotes and over 200 previously unpublished photographs.
2013: Temporary Voice Loss Due to Thrombosis
Vicente Fernández experienced a thrombosis in 2013, which resulted in temporary voice loss.
2013: Latin Grammy Win for "Hoy"
Vicente Fernández won a Latin Grammy Award for his album "Hoy" in 2013.
2014: Release of "Mano a Mano, Tangos a la Manera de Vicente Fernández"
Vicente Fernández released the album "Mano a Mano, Tangos a la Manera de Vicente Fernández" in 2014.
2015: Release of "Muriendo de Amor"
In 2015, Vicente Fernández released the album 'Muriendo de Amor.'
2015: Abdominal Hernia Surgery
Vicente Fernández underwent surgery to address abdominal hernias in 2015.
April 2016: Criticism of Donald Trump and Support for Hillary Clinton
At the end of his farewell concert in April 2016, Vicente Fernández made headlines when he expressed strong disapproval of then-U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump, vowing to "spit on" him for his stance on immigration. Later that year, Fernández showed support for Hillary Clinton, even releasing a song titled "El Corrido de Hillary Clinton." Clinton invited him to her post-debate celebration following the final debate with Trump.
April 16, 2016: "Un Azteca en el Azteca" Farewell Concert
Vicente Fernández's farewell concert, "Un Azteca en el Azteca" (An Aztec in the Aztec), took place on April 16, 2016, at the Estadio Azteca. The concert, with free admission, drew a crowd of over 80,000 and lasted over four hours, making it the longest concert of his career. His son Alejandro joined him as the sole guest performer.
2016: Retirement from Live Performances
In 2016, Vicente Fernández made the decision to retire from performing live. However, he continued to record music and release albums.
2017: Grammy Win for "Un Azteca en el Azteca"
The recording of Vicente Fernández's farewell concert, "Un Azteca en el Azteca," won the Grammy Award for Best Regional Mexican Music Album in 2017.
2018: Release of "Más Romántico que Nunca"
Despite retiring from live performances, Vicente Fernández continued to record music. In 2018, he released the album "Más Romántico que Nunca."
2018: End of Second Period of PRI Rule
The PRI's second period of rule in Mexico ended in 2018.
May 2019: Controversy over Liver Transplant Remarks
In May 2019, Vicente Fernández sparked controversy during an interview with statements regarding his health. Fernández revealed that he had been hospitalized in Houston, Texas for liver surgery, but declined a transplant. His reasoning for refusing the transplant, that he didn't want to sleep with his wife with another man's liver, who might have been homosexual or a drug user, drew criticism.
October 2019: Statue Unveiling at Plaza de los Mariachis
A statue of Vicente Fernández was unveiled in Guadalajara at the Plaza de los Mariachis on October 6, 2019.
2019: Final On-Stage Appearance with Son Alejandro and Grandson Alex
Vicente Fernández occasionally performed with his sons, Alejandro and Vicente Jr., both singers. His final stage appearance was in 2019 alongside Alejandro, where he also promoted the musical career of his grandson, Alex.
2020: Release of "A Mis 80s"
In 2020, Vicente Fernández released the album "A Mis 80s."
January 2021: Apology for Inappropriate Conduct with Fan
Vicente Fernández faced criticism in January 2021 after he was seen in a photo touching a fan's breast while posing with her and her family. Fernández issued an apology to the family, stating that he did not recall the incident clearly but acknowledged that he was in the wrong.
February 2021: Sexual Assault Allegations by Lupita Castro
Singer Lupita Castro accused Vicente Fernández of sexual assault in February 2021, claiming the incident occurred 40 years earlier when she was 17 years old. Castro stated that she had remained silent due to Fernández's influence and alleged threats against her. She did not pursue legal action against him.
August 6, 2021: Hospitalization After Fall and Cervical Spine Injury
Vicente Fernández was hospitalized on August 6, 2021, after a serious fall at his ranch in Guadalajara. The fall resulted in a cervical spine injury, necessitating the use of a ventilator in the intensive care unit.
October 2021: Discharge from Intensive Care
Vicente Fernández was discharged from intensive care in October 2021 following improvements in his health.
November 30, 2021: Readmission to Intensive Care for Pneumonia
On November 30, 2021, Vicente Fernández was readmitted to the intensive care unit due to complications from pneumonia.
December 12, 2021: Death of Vicente Fernández
On December 12, 2021 Vicente Fernández passed away at the age of 81 from complications arising from injuries he sustained. Various world leaders and figures offered condolences, with many praising his contributions to music.
December 2021: Death of Vicente Fernández
Vicente Fernández passed away in December 2021 at the age of 81.
2021: Latin Grammy Win for "A Mis 80s"
Vicente Fernández's album "A Mis 80s" won the Latin Grammy Award for best ranchera album in 2021.
2021: Hospitalization for Urinary Tract Infection and Guillain-Barré Syndrome Diagnosis
In 2021, Vicente Fernández was hospitalized for two days for a urinary tract infection and was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome.
2022: Grammy Award for Best Regional Mexican Music Album
Fernández posthumously won a Grammy Award for his album "A Mis 80's" in the Best Regional Mexican Music Album category in 2022.
2023: Ranked Among Rolling Stone's Greatest Singers
Rolling Stone magazine bestowed a prestigious honor upon Vicente Fernández in 2023, naming him the greatest Mexican singer of all time. Moreover, he secured the 95th position on their esteemed "200 Best Singers of All Time" list.