Selena Quintanilla Wiki, Height, Age, Family, Husband, Net Worth and Career

Selena Quintanilla the “Queen of Tejano Music,” remains an enduring icon decades after her passing. Her powerful voice, captivating stage presence, and unique style broke barriers and brought Tejano music to a global audience. Though her life was tragically cut short, her influence on music, fashion, and culture is undeniable.

This post will explore the life and legacy of Selena Quintanilla, from her early days performing with her family to her rise as a solo superstar. We’ll look into her career milestones, personal life, and the impressive net worth she built as a musician and entrepreneur.

Selena Quintanilla Net Worth

Selena Quintanilla net worth was estimated to be $5 million. This fortune was accumulated not only from her successful music career, including album sales and concert tours but also from her entrepreneurial ventures.

She launched a successful clothing line and opened two “Selena Etc.” boutiques in Texas, which featured salons and her fashion designs. Hispanic Business magazine reported that her boutiques alone generated over five million dollars, positioning her as one of the wealthiest Hispanic musicians of her time.

Who is Selena Quintanilla?

Selena Quintanilla-Pérez was a beloved American singer, songwriter, and businesswoman who became one of the most celebrated Mexican-American entertainers of the 20th century. Born on April 16, 1971, in Lake Jackson, Texas, she revolutionized the Tejano music genre by blending traditional Mexican sounds with modern pop and R&B influences.

Known simply as Selena, she was a charismatic performer who captivated audiences with her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence. Beyond music, she was a fashion icon and an astute businessperson, launching her own clothing line and boutiques.

How did Selena Quintanilla become famous?

Selena journey to fame began at a young age. At just ten years old, she became the lead singer of her family’s band, Selena y Los Dinos, which was managed by her father, Abraham Quintanilla Jr. The band, featuring her brother A.B. on bass and her sister Suzette on drums, toured extensively throughout Texas, honing their craft and building a loyal fanbase.

Her major breakthrough came in 1987 when she won the Tejano Music Award for Female Vocalist of the Year, an award she would go on to win for years to come. This recognition led to a record deal with EMI Latin in 1989. The release of her self-titled debut album that year marked the official launch of her solo career.

Albums like Ven Conmigo and Entre a Mi Mundo further solidified her success, but it was her 1994 Grammy win for Best Mexican-American Album for Selena Live! that cemented her status as a mainstream star. Her posthumous crossover album, Dreaming of You (1995), debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, making her the first Latin artist to achieve this feat.

Selena Quintanilla Biography/Biography

Selena Quintanilla upbringing was deeply rooted in her Mexican-American heritage and faith. Raised as a Jehovah’s Witness alongside her siblings A.B. and Suzette Quintanilla, she learned the values of hard work and dedication from an early age.

Her mother, Marcella Ofelia Quintanilla, brought Cherokee ancestry to the family mix, creating a rich cultural foundation that would influence Selena’s artistic expression. The Quintanilla family faced significant financial challenges during Selena’s childhood.

When Abraham’s restaurant business struggled, he made the bold decision to focus entirely on his children’s musical careers. He pulled Selena out of school in the eighth grade to concentrate on music, though she later earned her high school diploma through correspondence courses and even enrolled in business administration courses at Pacific Western University.

This unconventional path proved to be the right choice. By age 10, Selena had become the lead vocalist of the family band, Selena y Los Dinos, with her brother A.B. on bass guitar and sister Suzette on drums. The family’s commitment to her career was total, with everyone playing a crucial role in her development as an artist.

Attribute	Detail
Full Name	Selena Quintanilla-Pérez
Date of Birth	April 16, 1971
Place of Birth	Lake Jackson, Texas, USA
Date of Death	March 31, 1995
Age at Death	23 years old
Nationality	American
Spouse	Chris Pérez (m. 1992)
Net Worth	Approximately $5 million at the time of her death
Occupation	Singer, Songwriter, Spokesperson, Businesswoman

Selena Quintanilla Age

Selena was born on April 16, 1971, and was tragically killed on March 31, 1995. She was 23 years old at the time of her death.

Selena Quintanilla Cause of Death

Selena was rushed to Corpus Christi Memorial Hospital. She had no pulse upon arrival. The official cause of death was exsanguination, or severe blood loss, from the single gunshot wound. The bullet had entered her upper right back and severed the subclavian artery, a major vessel in the chest.

Despite the grave nature of her injury, emergency room physicians attempted to revive her. They performed open-chest surgery and gave her multiple blood transfusions. After 50 minutes of surgical efforts, Selena Quintanilla-Pérez was pronounced dead at 1:05 p.m. She was just 23 years old.

Selena Quintanilla Died

On March 31, 1995, Selena life ended in the most shocking way imaginable. She was shot and killed by Yolanda Saldívar, the former president of her fan club and manager of her boutiques, following a confrontation about missing financial records. The murder sent shockwaves through the Latin music community and beyond, with over 60,000 fans attending her public memorial.

Saldívar betrayal was particularly devastating because she had been trusted as both a friend and business partner. The tragedy occurred at a motel in Corpus Christi, Texas, where Selena had gone to retrieve business documents and discuss financial discrepancies.

Selena Quintanilla Last Concert

Selena final televised concert is one of the most iconic performances in music history. It took place on February 26, 1995, at the Houston Astrodome in Texas, as part of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

Performing for a record-breaking crowd of over 61,000 fans, Selena delivered an electrifying hour-long set. Dressed in her famous sparkling purple jumpsuit, she performed a medley of disco hits followed by her own chart-topping songs, including “Amor Prohibido,” “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom,” and “Como la Flor.”

The concert showcased her incredible stage presence, powerful vocals, and deep connection with her audience. The live album recorded from this performance, The Last Concert, was released posthumously in 2001 and remains a beloved testament to her talent.

When was Selena last concert?

Selena quintanilla last concert took place shortly before her death in March 1995, though specific details about the exact date and location vary in historical accounts.

Selena Quintanilla Outfits

Selena was a fashion innovator who designed many of her own stage outfits. Her signature style included decorative bustiers, fitted pants, unbuttoned jackets, and elaborate accessories. She often incorporated traditional Mexican elements into contemporary designs, creating a unique aesthetic that influenced fashion trends throughout the 1990s and continues to inspire designers today.

Her attention to detail, including hand-sewn beading and custom embellishments, set her apart as both a performer and fashion designer. She operated boutiques called “Selena Etc.” where fans could purchase clothing inspired by her style. Modern celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Demi Lovato have cited her as a fashion influence, ensuring her style legacy lives on.

Selena Quintanilla Shirts

One of the most popular items is the Selena Quintanilla shirt. These shirts often feature iconic images of the singer, from her famous profile shot with her signature red lipstick to photos from her live performances. Graphics may include her autograph, song titles like “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom,” or the classic “Como la Flor” rose motif.

These shirts are more than just apparel; they are a statement of admiration for her artistry and cultural impact. They allow a new generation of fans to discover her music and style.

Selena Quintanilla Ethnicity

Selena heritage was a blend of cultures. Her father, Abraham Quintanilla Jr., is Mexican-American, and her mother, Marcella Ofelia Samora, has self-identified as having Cherokee ancestry. This made Selena a proud Mexican-American with Native American roots.

Selena Quintanilla Height and Weight

Selena stood at approximately 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 m) tall and weighs approximately 127 lbs.

Selena Quintanilla Early Life and Education

Selena was the youngest child of Marcella and Abraham Quintanilla Jr. She began singing at just six years old, and by age nine, she was performing professionally with her siblings in the family band. Her father recognized her talent early on and dedicated himself to nurturing her career.

Her demanding performance schedule made traditional schooling difficult. After being taken out of school in the eighth grade, Selena earned her high school diploma at age 17 from the American School of Correspondence in Chicago. She was later accepted to Louisiana State University and also enrolled at Pacific Western University to study business administration, showcasing her ambition beyond the music world.

Selena Quintanilla Personal Life

In 1992, Selena eloped with her band’s guitarist, Chris Pérez. Their relationship was initially kept secret from her father, who was concerned that a romance would interfere with her career. Eventually, her father accepted their marriage, and the couple remained together until her death.

Outside of her public persona, Selena had many interests. She loved animals, especially her five dogs, and was an avid collector of Fabergé eggs. Friends and family remember her as a down-to-earth person who enjoyed shopping at Wal-Mart and adventurous activities like parasailing and bungee jumping.

Selena Quintanilla Parents and Family

Selena’s family was central to her life and career. Her father, Abraham Quintanilla Jr., a former musician himself, was her manager and mentor. Her mother, Marcella Ofelia Quintanilla, provided unwavering support.

Her older brother, A.B. Quintanilla, was her principal songwriter and producer, while her older sister, Suzette Quintanilla, played drums in the band and remains a key figure in preserving Selena’s legacy.

Selena Quintanilla Husband

Selena personal life centered around her secret romance with Chris Pérez, the lead guitarist of Selena y Los Dinos. Their relationship began as a professional collaboration but blossomed into deep love, despite strong opposition from her father Abraham, who initially disapproved of the romance and even fired Chris from the band.

The couple eloped on April 2, 1992, marrying in secret before eventually winning over Abraham’s acceptance. Chris became not just Selena’s husband but also her creative partner, contributing to her musical evolution and supporting her dreams of crossover success.

Selena Quintanilla Kids

Selena Quintanilla and Chris Pérez did not have any children together. Their marriage, though brief, was characterized by mutual support for each other’s careers and shared dreams for the future. Selena often spoke about wanting a family, but her life was tragically cut short before those dreams could be realized.

Selena Quintanilla Career/Professional Journey

Selena Quintanilla professional journey began in earnest when she won the Tejano Music Award for Female Vocalist of the Year in 1987 at just 15 years old. This achievement marked the beginning of an unprecedented winning streak she would claim this award for nine consecutive years, establishing her dominance in a genre traditionally dominated by male artists.

The signing with EMI Latin in 1989 represented a major breakthrough moment for Selena. Her debut solo album launched her into a new stratosphere of success, but it was her 1992 release “Entre a Mi Mundo” that truly catapulted her to stardom.

The album featured the hit single “Como la Flor,” which became one of her signature songs and demonstrated her ability to blend traditional Tejano sounds with contemporary pop sensibilities. Selena musical style was revolutionary for its time.

She seamlessly fused Tejano musi a genre combining Mexican influences with country, polka, and jazz elements with R&B, pop, and Latin rhythms. Her dynamic voice could handle everything from traditional Mexican ballads to upbeat dance tracks, making her appeal transcend cultural and linguistic boundaries.

Her 1993 album “Live!” earned her the Grammy Award for Best Mexican/American Album in 1994, making her the first female Tejano artist to win a Grammy. This historic achievement opened doors for countless Latin artists who would follow in her footsteps.

The 1994 release “Amor Prohibido” became one of the best-selling Latin albums in U.S. history. Songs like “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom” and “No Me Queda Más” showcased her versatility and cemented her status as the undisputed Queen of Tejano Music.

Selena Quintanilla Songs

Selena discography represents a remarkable artistic evolution compressed into just a few short years. Her most beloved songs continue to resonate with fans decades after their release:

• “Como la Flor” – Perhaps her most iconic song, this track perfectly encapsulates her ability to convey deep emotion through music
• “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom” – A playful, energetic number that became a cross-cultural phenomenon
• “Amor Prohibido” – The title track from her most successful album, dealing with themes of forbidden love
• “Baila Esta Cumbia” – A dance floor favorite that showcased her ability to get crowds moving
• “I Could Fall in Love” – One of her English-language crossover attempts, demonstrating her versatility

Her posthumously released album “Dreaming of You” (1995) included both Spanish and English tracks, revealing her plans for mainstream crossover success. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, making Selena the first Latin artist to achieve this milestone.

Selena Quintanilla 10 Best Songs

10. No Debes Jugar

Kicking off the list is “No Debes Jugar,” a track where Selena lays down the law. In this powerful anthem, she tells a cheating lover that she’s finished with his games and won’t hesitate to put him in his place. Her shining, confident voice delivers the assertive lyrics with conviction.

Released as the lead single from her 1993 live album, Live!, this song proved Selena could be both sweet and strong, and its message still resonates with listeners today.

9. El Chico Del Apartamento 512

This track is a perfect example of Selena’s playful side. “El Chico Del Apartamento 512” tells the humorous story of a young woman infatuated with the boy from apartment 512. Her heart sinks when she finally knocks on his door and another woman answers.

The song’s cheerful, eclectic melody combines Colombian and South American influences with a distinct Tejano flair. The song’s lasting power was proven when it hit No. 1 on the Billboard Regional Mexican Airplay chart in 2011, sixteen years after her death.

8. Techno Cumbia

Pure, unadulterated fun. “Techno Cumbia” is a lively tribute to Mexico’s tecnocumbia genre that instantly makes you want to get up and dance. With booming drums and electronic elements, the song is simply about letting loose and moving to the intoxicating beat. It perfectly showcases Selena’s energetic stage presence and powerful voice, making it one of the most vibrant and enjoyable tracks in her catalog.

7. Si Una Vez

If you’re looking for a song that truly displays the strength and range of Selena’s voice, look no further than “Si Una Vez.” The empowering lyrics find Selena retracting a promise to love an abusive partner forever, taking back her power by ending the relationship.

The song’s Latin-infused melody compels the body to move, while her vocal performance is a masterclass in control, blending smoky tones with sweet flourishes that make her voice so unforgettable.

6. La Carcacha

From the opening countdown of her legendary performance at the Houston Astrodome, “La Carcacha” promises a good time. The song, which translates to “The Jalopy,” was inspired by a moment Selena’s brother, A.B. Quintanilla, witnessed.

The bouncy beat and Selena’s fierce vocals tell the story of a woman choosing a man with a run-down car over his flashier rivals. The live performance of this track is iconic, filled with confident attitude and incredible musicianship that make it as memorable as the song itself.

5. Dreaming of You

This classic ’90s pop ballad is the title track of Selena’s posthumously released 1995 album. “Dreaming of You” sweetly captures the joy and longing of young love. While she weaves in Spanish phrases, it’s her soaring English vocals that truly stand out, demonstrating her potential as a crossover superstar.

The song resonated deeply with both her Spanish and English-speaking fans, becoming a timeless classic not just in her repertoire, but in pop music history.

4. No Me Queda Más

With its cinematic, mariachi-meets-pop melody, “No Me Queda Más” is an instantly captivating ballad. Selena’s honey-like voice beautifully conveys the pain of saying goodbye to a lost love while wishing them well.

The song’s emotional depth and flawless vocal delivery struck a chord with listeners everywhere, topping the Billboard Hot Latin Songs chart in 1994 and solidifying its place as one of her most signature and timeless hits.

3. I Could Fall in Love

As Selena’s first major English-language single, “I Could Fall in Love” was a dreamy introduction for a massive new audience. Released after her death, the track beautifully showcases her sweet, gentle vocals and her ability to convey deep emotion.

The song massively expanded her reach, forging a powerful connection with fans across cultures and becoming one of the most prominent pillars of her eternal legacy.

2. Bidi Bidi Bom Bom

Instantly recognizable from the first note, “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom” is one of the most definitive songs of Selena’s career. The title mimics the sound of a heart beating with excitement, and the music reflects that perfectly. Co-written by Selena, its effervescent melody seamlessly blends Tejano, cumbia, and reggae influences, creating an irresistible groove.

The track topped the Billboard Hot Latin Songs chart and remains a beloved fan-favorite that captures her bubbly personality and infectious energy.

1. Como La Flor

It’s nearly impossible to think of Selena without hearing the opening notes of “Como La Flor.” Arguably the biggest signature hit of her career, this song showcases everything that made Selena a superstar. Her captivating voice pulls you in from the very first line, and the iconic Tejano-style drums create an unforgettable rhythm.

“Como La Flor,” which means “Like the Flower,” tells a story of love that has wilted, delivered with a mix of heartache and resilience. It is a flawless Latin pop song and a career-defining anthem that continues to touch audiences around the world.

Selena Quintanilla Musical Style and Influences

Selena musical genius lay in her ability to blend traditional Tejano sounds with contemporary influences. Tejano music, a male-dominated genre with German polka, jazz, and country influences, was transformed by Selena’s unique approach.

She drew inspiration from diverse artists including Gloria Estefan, Madonna, Paula Abdul, Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston. Her musical evolution was evident throughout her career. Songs like “My Love” showcased her pop sensibilities, while covers such as “Sukiyaki” demonstrated her versatility.

The cumbia “Besitos” and her duet “Amame, Quiéreme” with Pete Astudillo became signature examples of how she mixed rhythm and sound to create her trademark style. Selena didn’t just perform Tejano music she elevated it. She explored cumbia, funk, disco, and traditional Tejano genres, creating a fusion that made the music accessible to broader audiences.

Her ability to sing with emotion in Spanish, despite English being her first language, showed her deep connection to her Mexican heritage and helped her become a bridge between cultures.

1994–1995: Fashion Venture, Film Debut, and Amor Prohibido

The period from 1994 to 1995 marked the height of Selena’s career and showcased her entrepreneurial spirit. In 1994, she launched her clothing line and opened two Selena Etc. boutiques in Corpus Christi and San Antonio, Texas. These weren’t just retail stores they were complete lifestyle destinations featuring in-house beauty salons.

The boutiques proved to be highly successful seven-figure businesses, demonstrating Selena’s keen business acumen. Her album “Amor Prohibido,” released in 1994, became one of the best-selling Latin albums in the United States.

The album spawned four number-one singles and helped popularize Tejano music among younger audiences. It solidified her status as a Tejano superstar and proved that Latin music could achieve mainstream commercial success.

During this period, Selena also made her film debut with a cameo appearance in “Don Juan DeMarco” (1995), starring Johnny Depp. This small role hinted at her potential for crossover success in Hollywood, adding another dimension to her already impressive career portfolio.

The success of “Amor Prohibido” and her business ventures positioned Selena for even greater achievements. She was working on her English-language crossover album “Dreaming of You” at the time of her death, which would have likely catapulted her to even greater international stardom.

Selena Quintanilla Murder

On March 31, 1995, the music world lost a shining star when Selena was murdered at just 23 years old. The perpetrator was Yolanda Saldívar, who had been managing Selena’s boutiques and fan club. What began as a trusted business relationship deteriorated when it was discovered that Saldívar had embezzled more than $30,000 from the fan club and boutiques.

The Selena Quintanilla murder occurred during a meeting at a Days Inn motel in Corpus Christi, where Selena had gone to confront Saldívar about the missing finances and retrieve important banking documents needed for tax filing. When Saldívar refused to hand over the documents, she shot Selena in the lower right shoulder.

The gunshot wound severed an artery, causing severe blood loss. Selena managed to stagger to the motel lobby, where she identified her shooter before collapsing. She was rushed to the hospital but had no pulse upon arrival. Despite efforts to save her life, she was pronounced dead at 1:05 PM due to hypovolemic shock from severe blood loss.

The selena quintanilla cause of death was officially listed as blood loss and cardiac arrest resulting from the gunshot wound. Saldívar was convicted of first-degree murder in 1995 and sentenced to life in prison. She became eligible for parole in 2025, thirty years after the crime.

Selena Quintanilla Movie

In 1997, Warner Bros. released “Selena,” a biographical film about her life and career starring Jennifer Lopez. The selena quintanilla movie introduced Selena’s story to a new generation and helped cement her legacy in popular culture. Lopez’s portrayal earned critical acclaim and helped launch her own successful career in entertainment.

The film’s success demonstrated the enduring appeal of Selena’s story and the continued interest in her life and music. It also served as a platform for educating audiences about Tejano culture and the struggles faced by Latino artists in the music industry.

The movie’s impact extended beyond entertainment, becoming a cultural touchstone that celebrated Selena’s contributions to music and her role as a trailblazer for Latino representation in mainstream media.

Selena Quintanilla Merchandise

Selen star continues to shine brightly, partly through the enduring popularity of her merchandise. For fans, owning a piece of Selena Quintanilla merchandise is a way to celebrate her life and connect with her legacy.

Other Merchandise

Beyond shirts, the world of Selena merchandise is vast. It includes:

• Music: Her albums continue to be sold on vinyl, CD, and digital platforms.
• Makeup: In collaboration with her family, major beauty brands have released limited-edition makeup collections inspired by Selena’s signature look.
• Accessories: From hats and tote bags to posters and collectible figures, there are countless ways for fans to honor her memory.

This merchandise allows fans to keep a piece of Selena with them and ensures her story and influence are passed down through the years.

Selena Quintanilla Book

Selena Quintanilla books have been written about life and career, documenting her rise to fame and lasting impact on Latin music. Her story has been immortalized in the 1997 biographical film “Selena,” starring Jennifer Lopez, and the 2020 Netflix series “Selena: The Series,” featuring Christian Serratos.

Selena Quintanilla Instagram

Selena never had the opportunity to use social media, her official Instagram account @selenaqofficial keeps her memory alive for new generations of fans. The account shares vintage photos, career highlights, and continues to celebrate her artistic legacy, maintaining her connection with fans worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Selena Quintanilla net worth?
Selena net worth was approximately $5 million. She had earned significant income from her music career, boutiques, and various business ventures, ranking among the top twenty wealthiest Hispanic musicians in the early 1990s.

Who was Selena Quintanilla married to?
Selena was married to Chris Pérez, the guitarist for Selena y Los Dinos. They eloped in 1992 after her father initially disapproved of their relationship.

What genre of music did Selena perform?
Selena primarily performed Tejano music, but she incorporated elements of cumbia, pop, R&B, and other genres to create her unique sound.

How old was Selena when she started performing?
Selena began performing professionally around age 10 as the lead singer of Selena y Los Dinos, the family band managed by her father.

What awards did Selena win during her career?
Selena won numerous awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Mexican/American Album, 14 Billboard Latin Music Awards, 10 Lo Nuestro Awards, and 36 Tejano Music Awards. She was posthumously inducted into the Billboard Latin Music Hall of Fame.

What made Selena’s music style unique?
Selena revolutionized Tejano music by blending traditional Mexican sounds with contemporary pop, R&B, and dance elements. Her ability to sing in both Spanish and English allowed her to bridge cultural gaps and appeal to diverse audiences.