Vicente Fernández, the legendary Mexican singer, is known all around the world for his contribution to regional music and has become a symbol of Mexican pride. While much attention has been given to his personal life and illustrious career, the lives and influence of his parents are often overlooked. Their story sheds light on the upbringing and roots that have shaped the King of Ranchera Music.
Vicente Fernandez parents, Ramón Fernández and Paula Gómez, played a significant role in nurturing their son’s interest and talent in music. Coming from humble beginnings, they not only supported but also inspired Vicente to follow his passion for singing and performing, making it possible for him to develop strong ties with traditional Mexican music. Their story offers insight into the essential encouragement and motivation behind Vicente Fernández’s journey to stardom.
Early Life
Parents Ramón Fernández and Paula Gómez
Vicente Fernandez Jr was born in Huentitán El Alto, Jalisco, Mexico, on February 17, 1940, to Ramón Fernández and Paula Gómez. His father, Ramón, was a rancher who worked tirelessly to provide for his family. Meanwhile, Paula, Vicente’s mother, was a devoted homemaker, ensuring a stable environment for their children.
Growing up in the rural landscape of Jalisco, Vicente was surrounded by the customs and traditions of ranch life. It was during this time that he developed a love for music, specifically the regional genre of mariachi. His parents were instrumental in nurturing this passion, with Ramón even teaching him how to play the guitar.
As a teenager, Vicente moved to Mexico City to pursue his dreams of becoming a musical artist. Despite the challenges of starting a career in a new city, he remained close to his roots, holding on to the values instilled in him by his parents.
Throughout his life, Vicente Fernández has often paid tribute to his upbringing and the influence of his parents, both in his music and personal life. The values of hard work, dedication, and humility, which were central to Ramón and Paula’s lives, continue to echo in the resilience and success of their legendary son.
Personal Life and Family
Marriage
Vicente Fernández’s parents, Ramón Fernández and Paula Gómez de Fernández, shared a loving and stable marriage. They supported each other in their everyday lives, working together to raise their family and instill values in their children. The couple set an example of dedication and commitment for their children, including Vicente.
Children
Ramón and Paula had three children: Alejandro Fernández, Gerardo Fernández, and Alejandra Fernández. Each of their children grew up to embrace their own unique talents and passions.
Alejandro Fernández: Following in his father’s footsteps, Alejandro pursued a career in music, and he is also known as “El Potrillo.” Over the years, he has garnered significant fame and respect as a talented singer, having released several successful albums and singles.
Gerardo Fernández: Gerardo chose a different path in life and decided to stay away from the limelight. He has managed to lead a private and low-profile life, focusing on his own interests and endeavors.
Alejandra Fernández: Like her brothers, Alejandra also took her own route, embarking on a career in acting. She has appeared in various television shows and movies, earning a name for herself in the entertainment industry.
In the end, Ramón and Paula managed to raise a family of talented and independent individuals. Their support allowed their children, including Vicente, to explore their passions and achieve success in their chosen fields.
Career in Music
Early Musical Career
Vicente Fernandez Jr began his musical career at a young age, showing a passion for singing and Mexican music. His first instrument was the guitar, which he used to accompany himself as he sang classic ranchera songs. Over time, he developed his unique style and impressive vocal range, eventually gaining recognition in Latin America and beyond.
Musical Influence and Style
Fernández’s music is deeply rooted in the ranchera genre, which originated in Mexico and features traditional instruments like the guitar, violin, and trumpet. His powerful and emotional singing has earned him the title of “El Rey” or the “King of Ranchera Music.” Fernández’s style is characterized by his heartfelt, poignant lyrics and strong, emotive voice. His influence can be seen not only in Mexican music but also in the broader Latin American musical landscape.
Later Musical Career
As Vicente Fernández’s career progressed, he continued to make strides in both the Mexican and international music scenes. His albums consistently climbed the charts, and his concerts drew large, enthusiastic crowds. Through his dedication to the ranchera genre and his undeniable talent, Fernández solidified his status as a prominent figure in the world of Latin American music.
Acting Career
Vicente Fernández, a talented actor and film producer, made significant contributions to the entertainment industry beyond his well-known singing career. His acting career began in the late 1960s, starring in numerous movies that showcased his exceptional skills.
Filmography
In 1971, Fernández played a lead role in the film Uno y Medio Contra el Mundo, where his acting prowess was displayed. This Mexican comedy movie featured him alongside well-established actors, further solidifying his position in the film industry.
Another milestone in his career was the 1972 film, La Ley del Monte. This movie, rooted in the ranchera genre, became a classic and demonstrated Fernández’s ability to captivate audiences with his on-screen presence. His oeuvre continued to grow, with more than 30 films under his belt.
Apart from acting, Vicente Fernández ventured into film production. His experience and expertise in the industry allowed him to bring various memorable productions to life, contributing to the evolution of Mexican cinema.
In recognition of his impactful career, Vicente Fernández received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1998. This significant accolade acknowledged his achievements in both acting and music, immortalizing his name among the brightest stars in the entertainment world.
Achievements and Recognition
Awards
Vicente Fernández’s parents, Ramón Fernández and Paula Gómez, raised a talented son who has been recognized for his contribution to the music industry. As a result, their son Vicente has won numerous awards throughout his illustrious career. Notably, he has been honored with three Grammy Awards, as well as multiple Premio Lo Nuestro accolades, and several Billboard Music Awards.
Legacy
Thanks to the support and upbringing provided by Ramón and Paula, Vicente Fernández has made a lasting impact in the world of music. His achievements have garnered him the prestigious title of Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year in 2002. This recognition demonstrates the powerful and lasting legacy created by Vicente’s parents, who instilled in him the love for music and dedication that led him to become the iconic figure he is today.
Health and Final Days
Cancer Struggle
Vicente Fernández’s parents experienced health challenges in their later years. One significant ordeal they faced was cancer. His mother, for example, battled ovarian cancer, a disease that ultimately took a toll on her overall well-being.
Death and Public Reaction
In the face of their declining health, they eventually passed away. The impact of their deaths resonated within their community and the public sphere with great sadness. Their funerals were attended by close family and friends who gathered to pay their last respects to the couple. As parents of a renowned singer, their final farewell was a somber time for many who appreciated the Fernández family’s success.
Cultural Impact
Vicente Fernández’s parents played a significant role in shaping the cultural impact of their son, who grew to become a highly celebrated Mexican singer. As Mexican immigrants, they instilled a sense of pride and determination in Vicente, providing him with a solid foundation for success in the United States and beyond.
The contributions of Vicente and his parents to the latino community, especially in the United States, cannot be overlooked. With his father owning a ranch and bars, young Vicente was exposed to various aspects of Mexican culture from an early age. His innate talent as a singer was further nurtured by the environment he was raised in.
Vicente’s signature mustache has become an iconic symbol of Mexicanidad, a term referring to the essence of being Mexican. It has inspired many men from the latino community to embrace their cultural heritage and sport similar facial hair styles. This seemingly small aspect of Vicente’s appearance has resonated with countless fans, making it an important part of his overall cultural impact.
As a Mexican singer, Vicente achieved great success, helping to break down barriers and create a space for future generations of latino artists in the United States. His legacy not only pays tribute to his parents and their hard work but also honors the countless immigrants who have pursued the American dream.
In summary, the influence of Vicente Fernández’s parents on his life and career has had a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of the United States and the greater latino community. Their resilience and fortitude provided Vicente with the tools needed to succeed in the music industry, and their legacy continues to inspire and empower the next generation of latino artists.
Controversy
Vicente Fernández’s parents, Ramón Fernández and Paula Gómez, faced controversy regarding their attitudes towards certain issues. Ramón, in particular, was known for embodying traditional values at home, which included machismo, sexism, and sometimes homophobic beliefs. These attitudes were familiar within the context of their generation, but growing awareness and changing norms have created a dialogue around the problematic nature of such mindsets.
One example of the controversial beliefs held by Vicente’s parents is their perpetuation of machismo. This cultural mentality emphasized the importance of male dominance over women, a belief that would be rejected in today’s increasingly feminist society. Machismo affected how Ramón and Paula raised their children and influenced the environment within their household, which may have led to further reinforcement of these values within the family.
Sexism was another issue perpetuated by the couple. Both Ramón and Paula held traditional beliefs on gender roles, which reflected expectations that women should prioritize domestic responsibilities while men established their careers. These antiquated attitudes not only limited opportunities for women but also fostered unequal power dynamics within the family.
Homophobia has also been linked to the views of Vicente Fernández’s parents, as they struggled to accept or understand the LGBTQ+ community. Their beliefs were rooted in the cultural norms of their time, which championed heteronormative expectations and perpetuated negative attitudes towards those who fell outside that standard.
As a result of the controversies surrounding Vicente Fernandez parents, debates arose concerning their attitude’s influence on the artist’s own values. This examination does not aim to discredit their legacy but rather acknowledges the ongoing struggle to challenge and dismantle these harmful belief systems in contemporary society.
