NAMES IN THE NEWS : Singer Recalls Fight for Sobriety

Singer Freddy Fender says he doubts the death of one of his band members is drug-related but says the tragedy stirred memories of his own struggle with drugs and alcohol.

Fender, 52, said Wednesday that he suffered a deep loss in the death of bass guitarist Johnny Garcia, who collapsed and died Sunday. The cause of death is under investigation.

“I am a recovering alcoholic and drug addict, and it’s my commitment to other drug addicts and other drunks to help them, because it’s going to help me. . . . If there is any person that is anti-drugs and anti-booze, it’s me,” Fender said.

Fender, best known for his country western hit “Wasted Days and Wasted Nights,” saw his career plummet when he drank heavily and used drugs. Since entering a treatment center in 1985, he has tried to rebuild his career.

He knows exactly how long he’s been sober: “Four years, six months and nine days.”