Vicente Fernández
Vicente Fernández, the Singer, Actor, and Film Producer, is one of the most iconic man in Mexican history. Passing away at 81 years of age on December 12, 2021, the news sent shockwaves to his millions of fans around the world. A career spanning 50 years came to a sad ending.
Humble Beginnings
Born in a small village known as Huentitán El Alto, Jalisco, México on February 17, 1940, he grew up poor but still learned how to sing and play guitar by age 8. Forced to leave school at a young age, he took odd jobs to make ends meet for himself and his family. All while still pursuing his dream, Vicente, at age 14, took first place in a singing contest. Later singing in local clubs, restaurants, and weddings, he eventually joined 2 of the top mariachi bands in Guadalajara, Mexico, to further sharpen his vocal skills.
The Passing of One Legend Opens the Door for Another
Vicente began to knock on doors of various record companies in the mid-sixties. He was rudely turned down and told to find another career. Once being told to “Go sell peanuts or something…”. Not being phased, he continued his quest to become a superstar.
In the early morning hours of April 19, 1966, Javier Solís, the most popular ranchero singer and actor in Mexico, died from complications due to gallbladder surgery.
Soon, the record company executives who so rudely turned away Vicente Fernández were now calling on him.
In the summer of 1966, Vicente was signed to “CBS Mexico.” Vicente’s recording career began at this point.
Father Dies, but The Show Must Go On
In 1970 Vicente’s father died just moments before a concert. Not wanting to disappoint his fans, Vicente continued on with his performance. This type of love and dedication for his fans has lived on through his entire career. Increasing his adoring fan base all over the world.
The Song That Made Him Famous
However, it wasn’t until years later, in 1976, he recorded his massive hit “Volver, Volver,” which translates to “Return, Return.” A song about a tough, macho guy who admits his guilt in a failed love relationship, asking for his lover to return. This song catapulted Vicente into superstardom.
Vicente was soon called “Chente,” short for Vicente as a loving nickname by his adoring fans. Hit after hit was released and Vicente Fernández became known as the iconic “King of Ranchera Music.” Always giving his all to his audiences, often performing 3 hours on stage, belting away his notable classics.
Fingers Cut Off / Ransom Money
Vicente’s fame and fortune were not without heartaches. His son Vicente Fernández, Jr., was kidnapped for ransom in 1998. Two of Junior’s fingers were cut off during his captivity and mailed to the family. Vincente Jr. was released a few months later after a reported ransom of over 3 million dollars was paid.
Power and Emotion
His iconic songs such as “Volver, Volver” and “El Rey” are classic tear-jerkers in the Latin community. They are commonly played by lost, heartbroken souls while knocking back tequila shots. To understand Vicente’s vocal skills takes a few minutes to listen to “Volver, Volver.” If that was impressive to you, also take a listen to his classic rendition of “El Rey.”
I believe after listening to and experiencing the power of Vicente’s music, you will truly understand the phenomenon known as “Chente.”
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