Selena Quintanilla was born on April 16, 1971 in Corpus Christi, Texas, and grew to be a popular and infulencial part of America’s music scene. At the age of 6 her family discovered she had a talent for singing and her father encouraged her to sing in their family band. Selena became a huge success and started performing at events, and weddings.  At a young age, Selena sang Tejano music, but she didn’t have much success because the genre was dominated by male vocalists. It wasn’t until she won the Tejano Female Vocalist of the Year Award in 1987 that she gained widespread fame and praise. 

Her ascent was rapid. She released several albums over the next few years and gained increasing fame. By the time she released her album Selena Live! she was one of the best-selling Latin artists in the U.S.

Selena won her first Grammy award for Best Mexican-American Album in 1994 for her album Selena Live! When the album was released it became a hit and Selena was the very first Tejano female singer to win a Grammy in the category. Her success and fame led to her being known as Tejano Queen. 

She set examples for young Latinas through her hard work and success. Her music became extremely popular in the U.S. and Mexico. Selena’s life came to a tragic end on March 31, 1995, when she was murdered by Yolanda Saldivar in Corpus Christi, Texas. Even though she is gone her legacy is not. She is still remembered fondly by fans around the world for her music and passion. Back in her hometown, Corpus Christi, Texas, there is a museum that features Selena’s music and life ensuring that her memory and legacy will live on.