Selena

Discovering the Queen of Tejano Music: Selena Quintanilla-Pérez

Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, often referred to as the ‘Queen of Tejano Music,’ was a true icon whose legacy continues to inspire and captivate fans around the world. Born in 1971, her journey from a young girl with a passion for music to an international superstar is nothing short of remarkable.

Early Beginnings

Imagine a six-year-old girl with a voice that could captivate any room. That was Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, the youngest child in her family. Her father, Abraham Quintanilla Jr., noticed her musical abilities early on and opened his first Tex-Mex restaurant in Lake Jackson, where Selena and her siblings performed. The restaurant’s closure led to a new chapter for the family, settling in Corpus Christi, Texas, where Selena’s career truly began to take shape.

Breaking into the Music Industry

Selena y Los Dinos, the band formed by her father, was just the beginning. Her first LP record for Freddie Records in 1984 marked a significant step forward. As she grew more popular, she had to drop out of school at age eight and travel extensively with the band. This early exposure to the music industry shaped Selena into the artist we know today.

Her Breakthrough

The release of her self-titled debut album in 1989 was a turning point. It peaked at number seven on the US Billboard Regional Mexican Albums chart, and ‘Como la Flor’ became her signature recording, topping six on the US Billboard Top Latin Songs chart. Her third studio album, Entre a Mi Mundo, was critically acclaimed and established Selena as an artist of the people among Mexican media.

The Rise to Fame

Selena’s fourth studio album, Amor Prohibido, released in March 1994, became a massive success. It debuted at number three on the US Billboard Top Latin Albums chart and number one on the US Billboard Regional Mexican Albums charts. The album popularized Tejano music among a younger audience and earned Selena her first Grammy nomination for Best Mexican/American Album.

A Tragic End

Tragically, Selena’s life was cut short when she was shot and killed in 1995. The aftermath of her death was a national tragedy, with reactions compared to those following the deaths of John Lennon and Elvis Presley. Her murder had a widespread impact, with vigils and memorials held across the country.

Legacy and Impact

Selena’s legacy lives on through her music and influence. She was named one of the 20 most influential Texans and ranked fifth among ‘100 most influential Latin musicians of the 20th century.’ Her posthumous album, Dreaming of You, debuted atop the Billboard 200, making her the first solo artist to achieve this feat. Selena’s impact is celebrated through various tributes and honors, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Continuing Influence

From biopics to podcasts, Selena continues to inspire new generations. Her story has been told in numerous ways, from the film ‘Selena’ to the Netflix series Selena: The Series. Her influence extends beyond music into fashion and philanthropy, making her a true cultural icon.

So, the next time you listen to a Selena song or see her name mentioned in the news, remember the impact she had on music and culture. She truly was the Queen of Tejano Music, and her legacy continues to shine brightly.