Photo by Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images)
Decades after her passing, Selena still remains one of the most influential figures in the Latino community and continues to have a major impact in the realm of pop culture both in the U.S. and abroad. Born and raised in Texas, Selena broke ground during the 80s and 90s with her signature style, beautiful voice, and groundbreaking music in the Tejano music scene (Tex-Mex music), a genre that incorporates a blend of sounds, including Regional Mexican music, cumbia, rock, pop, R&B, and country. Captivating fans and audiences throughout the region with her dance moves and innovative style of Tejano music, much credit can also be given to her brother A.B. Quintanilla and bandmates for revolutionizing the genre, which had other heavyweight artists like Grupo Mazz, La Mafia, and Emilio Navaira. As Selena began to cross over into the American music market in the mid-90s, her popularity began to soar locally and remained stable in Latin America and Mexico. Her entrepreneurial mindset and limitless endeavors saw her cross over into fashion as she opened up boutiques with built-in beauty salons across Texas. At the time, no other Mexican American artist had accomplished such milestones, and that limitless mindset continues to inspire and resonate with fans all over the world today.
Since her tragic death in 1995, the Tejano music scene feels a bit amiss without Selena’s presence, but nevertheless her legacy remains intact as newer generations of fans and young women get to know the late icon. Over the years, Selena’s legacy has been memorialized through film, merchandise, and most recently, a Netflix series in 2020. Rewind to 2016; fans were ecstatic, including myself, when Mac collaborated with Selena’s estate to release a makeup line. A second makeup line was eventually released in 2020 at the height of the pandemic which included lipsticks, an eyeshadow palette, a makeup bag, bronzer, and lip gloss. However, despite the buzz and excitement surrounding the makeup line, mixed feelings and skepticism amongst fans have ensued over the years regarding the use of Selena’s image for profit. Despite this, one thing remains the same. Selena’s music and compelling visionary style continues to bridge the gap between Mexican and American cultures as she sang in both English and Spanish. To date, no other female Latin artist has been able to capture or reciprocate her authentic charisma, dance ability, style, or voice.
Her influence on Latinas can also be seen through the use of makeup, clothing, costumes, and tribute artists. The University of Texas – San Antonio is also currently offering a class titled “Selena: A Mexican American Identity & Experience,” taught by Professor Sonya M. Alemán, which I had the opportunity to take in 2022. The course is an educational look into Selena’s influence and identity as a Chicana and explores her representation, image, and inspiration in the Mexican-American community. In the summer of 2022, after the course completion, I coincidentally had the chance to meet Chris Perez, Selena’s widow, which was a surreal experience.
In the end, reflecting back on Selena’s legacy, I always wonder what was next for her and what could have been, but I’m also thankful for Selena’s contribution to the arts and world of fashion and entertainment, paving the way for future Chicanas and Latinas. Today, April 16th marks what would have been Selena’s 54th birthday. Let’s take some time to celebrate a global icon who has forever changed the course of pop culture history through her captivating soulful voice and music.
Happy Birthday Selena, from Latinitas Magazine!
