Gerardo Reyes Cause of Death: How the Ranchera Star Battled Liver Cancer

Gerardo Reyes, a veteran Mexican singer and actor, passed away on February 25, 2023, at the age of 79. He was known as “El Amigo del Pueblo” (The Friend of the People) for his popular touch and unpretentious demeanor. He had a long and successful career that spanned six decades, during which he recorded 60 albums, composed 600 songs, and starred in 80 films. He was also a radio deejay, a film director, and a producer. His fans and colleagues mourned his death and celebrated his legacy as one of the most influential figures in the ranchera genre.

The Early Years of Gerardo Reyes

Gerardo Reyes was born in Cruz Grande, Guerrero, on December 25, 1943. He was the son of a farmer and a seamstress, and he grew up in poverty. He showed an interest in music from an early age, and he learned to play the guitar and sing by himself. He moved to Mexico City when he was 15, where he worked as a shoeshine boy and a street vendor. He also performed in bars and restaurants, where he met other aspiring musicians.

In 1962, he immigrated to the United States, seeking better opportunities for his music career. He settled in Phoenix, Arizona, where he worked in the lettuce fields while moonlighting as a radio deejay and performing in local venues. He recorded his first songs for the Texas-based Bego label, which specialized in regional Mexican music. Some of his early hits were “Me Vengo a Despedir” (I Come to Say Farewell), “Sin Fortuna” (Without Fortune), and “Libro Abierto” (Open Book).

The Rise of Gerardo Reyes as a Ranchera Star

In 1968, Gerardo Reyes signed a contract with Columbia Records of Mexico, which gave him more exposure and recognition. He became one of the leading exponents of the ranchera genre, which is a traditional style of Mexican folk music that expresses the sentiments of the rural and working-class people. He sang about love, betrayal, pride, nostalgia, and social issues, with a distinctive voice that was strong and supple. He also wrote many of his own songs, drawing inspiration from his personal experiences and observations.

Some of his most famous songs include “Ya Vas Carnal” (See You Later, Brother), “Casado y Mujeriego” (Married and Womanizer), “Que Nos Entierren Juntos” (Let Them Bury Us Together), and “El Rey de los Caminos” (The King of the Roads). He also collaborated with other renowned artists, such as Vicente Fernández, Antonio Aguilar, and Lola Beltrán. He received several awards and honors for his musical achievements, such as the Golden Microphone, the Golden Record, and the Golden Guitar.

The Film Career of Gerardo Reyes

Gerardo Reyes was not only a singer, but also an actor. He made his film debut in 1970, in the movie “El Rey de los Caminos”, which was based on his hit song of the same name. He played the role of a truck driver who falls in love with a waitress, played by the actress Irma Dorantes. The film was a success, and it launched his career as a film star.

He went on to appear in 80 films, many of which he directed and produced himself. He often played the roles of heroes, outlaws, or rebels, who fought against injustice and corruption. He also showcased his musical talent in his films, singing some of his most popular songs. Some of his notable films are “El Hijo de los Pobres” (The Son of the Poor), “La Muerte de un Gallero” (The Death of a Cockfighter), “El Cachas de Oro” (The Golden Pistol), and “El Diablo en Persona” (The Devil in Person).

The Final Years of Gerardo Reyes

Gerardo Reyes continued to perform and record until his final years, despite his declining health. He was diagnosed with liver cancer in 2021, and he underwent several treatments and surgeries. He also suffered from diabetes and kidney problems. He moved to Cuernavaca, Morelos, where he lived for 45 years, and where he spent his last days surrounded by his family and friends.

His last recording was a tribute to the iconic ranchera star Pedro Infante, whom he admired and considered his idol. He also planned to release a book of his memoirs, titled “Mi Vida y Mi Canto” (My Life and My Song), but he did not finish it before his death. He died on February 25, 2023, at the age of 79. His son, Gerardo Reyes Jr., who was also his manager and who followed his footsteps as a singer and actor, announced his death to the public. He said his father’s life was “one of professional triumphs in an exemplary career of a man who rose from nothing to become a folk hero”.

The Legacy of Gerardo Reyes

Gerardo Reyes left behind a rich and diverse legacy that spans music, film, and culture. He was one of the most influential and beloved figures in the ranchera genre, and he contributed to its development and diffusion. He was also a pioneer and a leader in the regional Mexican music industry, as he was one of the first artists to cross the border and reach international audiences. He was also a versatile and talented actor, who starred in films that reflected the realities and aspirations of the Mexican people.

He was admired and respected by his fans and colleagues, who recognized his talent, charisma, and humility. He was known as “El Amigo del Pueblo” (The Friend of the People), because he always maintained a close and sincere connection with his public, and because he supported various social causes and charities. He was also a devoted family man, who loved his wife, his children, and his grandchildren. He was a man of faith, who trusted in God and who thanked him for his blessings.

Gerardo Reyes was a legend, a hero, and a friend. He will always be remembered and honored by his music, his films, and his legacy.

Doms Desk

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