Selena Quintanilla Celebration: Not Exploited

Selena Quintanilla, a trailblazer in Latin music, continues to inspire new generations of fans with her iconic music and legacy.

Today marks the 53rd anniversary of the birth of the legendary Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, an eternal icon in Latin pop culture and music. Selena's impact on the música Mexicana explosion and the Latina pop stars who followed in her footsteps cannot be understated. Despite the tragic circumstances of her death, her music and her ability to bridge the gap between her Mexican and American identities continue to resonate with new generations of fans.

Born on April 16, 1971, in Corpus Christi, TX, Selena proudly embraced her Chicana identity and pushed Tejano music forward in a genre dominated by men. Influenced by artists like Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Jody Watley, and Gloria Estefan, she became the top Tejano artist, winning multiple awards for her talent.

After conquering Texas, Selena signed with Latin EMI in 1989 and released iconic albums like "Ven Conmigo," "Entre a Mi Mundo," and "Selena Live!," which earned her a Grammy award. Her last album, "Amor Prohibido," produced four No. 1 hits on the Billboard charts, solidifying her status as a music legend.

Tragically, Selena's life was cut short on March 31, 1995, at the age of 23 by Yolanda Saldívar. Despite her untimely death, Selena's family has kept her memory alive through posthumous projects like the album "Dreaming of You" and the biopic starring Jennifer Lopez.

While Selena's family has continued to celebrate her legacy through memorial concerts, monuments, and brand deals, there have been moments of controversy. The release of the remix album "Moonchild Mixes" in 2022, which manipulated Selena's voice as a child, sparked discussions about the ethics of creating projects in her name.

Despite the criticisms, Selena's impact on Latinx culture and music remains unparalleled. Her music continues to inspire new generations of fans, and her story of navigating between worlds as a Mexican American resonates with many today. Selena's legacy lives on through her family's efforts to honor her memory and keep her spirit alive for years to come.