Early Life and Education of Selena: A Complete Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Selena. From birth to education, explore key events.

Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, known as Selena, was an influential American singer-songwriter and the "Queen of Tejano Music." Her contributions to music and fashion made her a celebrated Mexican-American entertainer. Billboard ranked her as the third-greatest Latino artist of all time in 2020. Known as the "Tejano Madonna" for her fashion choices, Selena is credited with popularizing Tejano music and bringing it to the mainstream.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

April 16, 1971: Selena Quintanilla's Birth

On April 16, 1971, Selena Quintanilla-Pérez was born. She later became known as the "Queen of Tejano Music" and one of the most celebrated Mexican-American entertainers.

Others born on this day/year

1980: Opening of Papa Gayo's Restaurant

In 1980, Selena's father opened his first Tex-Mex restaurant in Lake Jackson, called Papa Gayo's. Selena and her siblings performed there often.

April 2, 1992: Selena and Chris Pérez Eloped

On April 2, 1992, Selena and Chris Pérez eloped because they believed Selena's father would never approve of their relationship. The media announced their elopement within hours.

1992: Selena's Clothing Affects Jehovah's Witness Status and Family

In 1992, Selena's choice of exotic clothing led to her becoming an inactive member of the Jehovah's Witnesses. During a photoshoot for Entre a Mi Mundo (1992), Selena's revealing outfits greatly affected her father, Quintanilla Jr., who would often leave the sessions. Selena was also credited with changing public perceptions of feminine beauty in the Tejano market.

August 1994: Selena hosts charity baseball game and donates to civic organizations

In August 1994, Selena hosted a charity baseball game to raise money for unspecified charities. She also donated her time to civic organizations such as D.A.R.E. and planned a fundraising concert to help AIDS patients. Additionally, Selena participated with the Texas Prevention Partnership, releasing educational videos such as "My Music" and "Selena Agrees" for students.

December 3, 1994: Concert after Selena Etc.'s second fashion show

On December 3, 1994, Selena, along with her band Selena y Los Dinos, performed a concert at the Hemisfair Arena in San Antonio following Selena Etc.'s second fashion show, blending her musical talent with her entrepreneurial fashion ventures.

December 1994: Boutiques Begin to Suffer

In December 1994, Selena's boutiques began to suffer due to a decrease in staff, as Yolanda Saldívar often dismissed employees she disliked, according to staff members. This marked the beginning of issues related to Saldívar's management.

January 1995: Selena Headlines Teach the Children Festival

In January 1995, Selena headlined the Teach the Children festival in San Antonio, raising funds for school supplies for needy children. She also advocated for women in abusive relationships and aided homeless shelters, encouraging her minority fans to make the most of their lives.

January 1995: Concerns Over Saldívar's Behavior

In January 1995, Selena's fashion designer Martin Gomez, her cousin Debra Ramirez, and clients began expressing concerns over Yolanda Saldívar's behavior and management skills, indicating growing unease about her role in Selena's affairs.

January 1995: Investigation into Fan Club Funds

In January 1995, Selena's father, Quintanilla Jr., began receiving calls from fans who had not received promised items from the Selena fan club, leading to an investigation into Yolanda Saldívar's handling of funds.

April 3, 1995: Selena's Burial

On April 3, 1995, Selena's burial was held at Seaside Memorial Park in Corpus Christi, Texas. The burial was broadcast live by a Corpus Christi and San Antonio radio station without the consent of her family. Many celebrities and fans attended to pay their respects.

April 12, 1995: Selena Day Declared in Texas

On April 12, 1995, George W. Bush, then governor of Texas, declared April 16 as Selena Day in the state, recognizing Selena's cultural impact, which sparked mixed reactions and some controversy.

October 1995: Saldívar Convicted of First-Degree Murder

In October 1995, Yolanda Saldívar was convicted of first-degree murder in Houston for the death of Selena and sentenced to life in prison, with the possibility of parole after 30 years in 2025.

January 2015: Inaugural Fiesta de la Flor Held in Corpus Christi

In January 2015, the first annual Fiesta de la Flor was held in Corpus Christi to honor Selena. The two-day event featured musical acts and drew 52,000 attendees, generating $13 million in revenue.