Vicente Fernández Net Worth

The Life and Legacy of Vicente Fernández: A Look at His Net Worth

Vicente Fernández, a name synonymous with Mexican music, was more than just a singer; he was a cultural icon. His powerful voice, charismatic stage presence, and deeply personal songs resonated with millions, solidifying his place as one of the best-selling Latin music artists of all time. This article delves into the life and career of Vicente Fernández, exploring his humble beginnings, meteoric rise, and the controversies that marked his later years. We will also examine his net worth at the time of his passing, offering a comprehensive look at the financial success that mirrored his artistic achievements.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Vicente Fernández was born on February 17, 1940, in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. His upbringing was rooted in the traditions of rural Mexico. From a young age, he displayed a passion for music. His father was a rancher and his mother a homemaker, providing a nurturing environment that fostered his artistic inclinations. He received his first guitar at the age of eight, sparking a lifelong love affair with music. Fernández’s childhood dream was to become an actor, but music would ultimately become his true calling.

After completing elementary school, Fernández’s family moved to Tijuana. During his teenage years, he took on various jobs, including painter, bricklayer, and cabinetmaker. These experiences instilled a strong work ethic and provided valuable life lessons. He further honed his skills by singing in restaurants and at weddings, gaining experience in front of live audiences and developing his signature vocal style. Fernández’s early career also saw him joining several mariachi bands, where he learned the intricacies of traditional Mexican music.

Rise to Fame and International Breakthroughs

Fernández’s professional music career began at the age of 21, with his first paid television appearance on the show “La Calandria Musical.” In 1965, he moved to Mexico City to pursue his musical ambitions. He signed his first recording contract with CBS México, which led to the release of his early albums: “Soy de Abajo,” “Ni en Defensa Propia,” and “Palabra de Rey.” These albums established his presence in the Mexican music scene, showcasing his powerful voice and heartfelt interpretations.

His career took off with albums like “La Voz Que Estabas Esperando,” and the hit albums “El Rey,” “El Hijo del Pueblo,” and “Para Recordar.” Fernández achieved international recognition in 1978 when his rendition of Fernando Z. Maldonado’s song “Volver, Volver” became a massive hit across the Americas. The song, which is still considered one of his signature tunes, solidified his status as a global superstar. His first album to sell over a million copies came in 1983, titled “15 Grandes Con el Numero Uno.” This further demonstrated his widespread appeal.

Fernández expanded his reach internationally in 1987 with his first tour of South America, traveling to Colombia and Bolivia. He continued to release successful albums, including ranchera albums like “Lástima Que Seas Ajena,” “Aunque Me Duela el Alma,” and “La Mentira.” He was quickly becoming known in the United States as the “Mexican Sinatra” in the 1990s, during which he earned five Grammy Award nominations.

Musical Accolades and Continued Success

The 2000s were marked by continued success for Fernández, as he released a string of hit albums. These included: “Vicente Fernández y los Más Grandes Éxitos de Los Dandys”; “Más Con El Número Uno”; “En Vivo Juntos Por Ultima Vez”; “Se Me Hizo Tarde la Vida”; and “La Tragedia del Vaquero.” One of his greatest successes came in 2007 with the album “Para Siempre,” which sold over two million copies globally. This album also won the Latin Grammy Award for Best Ranchero Album. His winning streak continued with “Primera Fila,” “Necesito de Ti,” “El Hombre Que Más Te Amó,” and “Hoy,” each of which won Latin Grammy Awards for Best Ranchero Album. He received his final Latin Grammy in 2021 for his album “A Mis 80’s,” a testament to his enduring talent.

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Acting Career, Farewell Concert, and Controversies

In addition to his musical achievements, Fernández also had a successful acting career. He made his film debut in 1971 with “Tacos al Carbón.” His first starring role came in 1976 in “La Ley del Monte.” He went on to star in a total of 30 films, and 18 of those were directed by Rafael Villaseñor Kuri. In most of these films, he embodied the archetypal “macho” Mexican man. Some of his most notable film credits include “Por tu Maldito Amor,” “El Hijo del Pueblo,” and “Mi Querido Viejo,” which was released in 1991.

In April 2016, Fernández held a memorable farewell concert at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, performing for over 80,000 people. The concert, which lasted over four hours and featured more than 40 songs, was the largest concert of his career. The live recording of the concert, titled “Un Azteca En El Azteca, Vol. 1 (En Vivo),” won the Grammy Award for Best Regional Mexican Music Album in 2017, serving as a fitting tribute to his legendary status.

Despite his immense popularity, Fernández’s later years were marked by several controversies. In 2019, he made headlines when he stated he refused a liver transplant, expressing concerns that the organ could have come from a homosexual or drug user. This comment drew considerable criticism and sparked public outrage. Additionally, a few years later, he caused another uproar when he touched a female fan’s breast without her consent while taking a picture. Furthermore, singer Lupita Castro accused him of sexual assault, alleging an incident that happened around 40 years ago, and which she remained quiet about at the time due to fear.

Personal Life, Health Struggles, and Death

In 1963, Vicente Fernández married Maria del Refugio Abarca Villaseñor, and they had four children: Vicente Jr., Alejandro, Gerardo, and an adopted daughter named Alejandra. Vicente Jr. was born prematurely and required incubation, which caused health problems, including a kidnapping in 1998. He was held as ransom, and his finger was amputated as a warning. Fernández allegedly paid a substantial sum to secure his son’s release.

Fernández faced several health challenges in his later life. He battled prostate cancer, which he successfully overcame in 2002, as well as liver cancer. However, he decided against a liver transplant. In 2013, he suffered a thrombosis that caused him to temporarily lose his voice. In 2015, he had surgery to remove abdominal hernias. In 2021, after a fall at his ranch, he was hospitalized with injuries to his cervical spine and was also diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome. After his condition fluctuated, it eventually worsened due to pneumonia. He passed away on December 12, 2021, at the age of 81.

Vicente Fernández’s Net Worth: A Summary

At the time of his death, Vicente Fernández’s net worth was estimated to be $25 million. This figure is a testament to his highly successful career in music, film, and his numerous business ventures. Fernández’s legacy extends beyond his financial success, leaving an indelible mark on Mexican and Latin American culture, through his music.