Tejano legend Emilio Navaira dies at 53

NEW BRAUNFELS, Texas – Legendary Tejano star Emilio Navaira died Monday. He was 53.

Fans said Navaira has reached millions of followers, not just in Texas, but all over the world.

Many people said Navaira's death reminded them of when Selena died; a devastating loss to the Tejano music industry and a huge blow to the music world.

Radio station Mega 101 played tributes all morning on Tuesday after learning of Navaira's death late Monday.

"Definitely it's a huge loss for music all over the world, not just here in Texas or in America, like Mexico, too. All the people really loved him," Mega 101 host Gerry Fernandez said.

"We found out late last night and this morning the phone's been blowing up people have been calling remembering. Artists and the music industry in general devastated with this loss," Mega 101 host Cindy Burbano said.

New Braunfels police said Navaira was found lying on the floor of his home unconscious and not breathing just after 8 p.m. Monday. They rushed him to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Navaira is credited for making Tejano music so popular, even crossing over and churning out country hits. He sold out crowds during Go Tejano Day at the Houston Rodeo.

Folks called him the king of Tejano Music, the male equivalent to Selena.

Social media sent out their condolences.

Selena's brother, A.B. Quintanilla tweeted, "Rest in peace my friend Emilio Navaira. I was just with him and Raulito 5 de Mayo weekend laughing about old times. My heart goes out to all his familia. Gonna miss you brother."

Friends of the singer said even though he is gone, he leaves behind a huge legacy.

"He was the best Tejano singer ever. Actually Emilio Navaira and Selena Quintanilla were the most important couple for the Tejano industry that's why we are very sorry," Raul Brindis, host of "El Show De Raul Brindis," said.

Police in New Braunfels said they believe Navaira died of natural causes, but they are waiting for results of an autopsy.

Finest Tejano KXYZ radio station announced there will be a candlelight vigil Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the station at 12303 Scarsdale, Suite F. All of Navaira's fans are invited to attend. 

Emilio Navaira

Emilio performed at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in 1990, '95-97, '99 and 2007.

Thousands of fans have taken to social media to remember the singer. A memorial was created on Twitter in Navaira's honor.  Fans are encouraged to attend a 7 p.m. candlelight vigil at 12303 Scarsdale Suite F.