Back in the '90s, I heard about a singer who was mostly unknown to Americans at the time, but she was immensely popular with Latinos and was compared to Madonna. In fact, she was nicknamed "Tejano Madonna". As a Mexican-American, Selena Quintanilla grew up in Texas, became a music superstar, crossed over with an English album, and even won a Grammy.
Coincidentally, I had been considering featuring Selena in Ted's MOVIE OF THE WEEK. When I heard Netflix had a series about her, I thought about the 1997 biopic with Jennifer Lopez and Edward James Olmos and thought it was time to showcase the movie.
Jennifer Lopez was perfectly casted for the title role, not just because of her resemblance to Selena, but she herself is an exceptional actress and music artist. Lopez and Edward James Olmos, who played her father and manager, both delivered commendable performances in the film. And bravo to writer and director Gregory Nava for marvelously bringing Selena's story to the big screen.
Anyone who knows me well can tell you that I have a very extensive taste in music. So much so, I bought Selena's Dreaming of You CD album after seeing Selena. I appreciate her music, even though I may not understand a word in her Spanish songs. Her singing is incredible, and she's a terrific live performer.
If anything in the world is universal, it's music. It can have a powerful and healing effect, and in divisive times, music can still bring peoples together, regardless of their backgrounds and cultures. Selena saw past boundaries and limitations, and she ultimately became very successful.
Selena and I were born in the same year, and she died tragically at such a young age, just when her career was reaching its peak. But unquestionably, Selena left a mark on her community and a legacy of great music and memories for her adoring fans.
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