Icon Vicente Fernandez Dead At 81

GUADALAJARA, JAL –– The world of Regional Mexican music is grieving the loss of the iconic Vicente Fernandez at the age of 81.

Earlier this year the Mexican star sustained a major fall that left him with severe medical issues –– his family announced his passing early Sunday morning.

With a career spanning more than 40 years, "El Charro de Huentitán" recorded more than 300 songs and sold 65 million albums worldwide. Fernandez also won three Grammy and eight Latin Grammys. Earlier this year, his last album "A Mis 80s" took home the Latin Grammy for Best Mariachi / Ranchera Music album.

The Guadalajara native spent decades as an ambassador for traditional Mariachi music all over the world. After launching into the music scene, Fernandez branched into acting, where he would star in at least 30 films. Incorporating his music into the films launched some of his most iconic music to the top of the charts.

Songs like "Por Tu Maldito Amor," "Mujeres Divinas," "Volver, Volver," “Hermoso Cariño,” and "El Rey" have become iconic songs for his fans worldwide.

In 2002, Fernandez was named Person of the Year by the Latin Recording Academy.