SAN DIEGO COUNTY, Calif. — Mexican singer Vicente Fernández is legendary in the Latin community. In Chula Vista, many local fans gathered at a local brewery to honor the 81-year-old performer, who died Sunday in Mexico. The singer was known as the king of Mexican, "Chente" and El Rey.
"From being little, our tia, uncles, cousins -- just having that music everywhere through our life and using it in celebrations in mourning, every aspect of our life. It's in our blood," said Dali Parker, Chula Vista Brewery owner.
The ranchera star has sold more than 65 million albums and we found a couple of mariachis at Chula Vista Brewery who listened to a lot of those albums.
"Claro que si. Relamente la muisica es popular," said Jose Antonio Escobar.
In 2012 Fernández performed locally, so it's no wonder why in the heart of downtown Chula Vista they're hearts feel a little heavier.
"We are all mourning, grieving and celebrating in our own way and celebrating the icon, legend and the life he lived celebrating El Rey," said Parker.
A message posted to his Instagram account said the singer took his last breath at 6:15 a.m. Sunday. The cause of his death has not been released.
Known as "El Charro de Huentitán" and "El Rey" by his fans around the world, Fernandez was widely respected as the king of ranchera music.
"It was an honor and a great pride sharing with all of you a great music career. Thank you for always cheering and singing." the Instagram post read.
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