No one can deny that since the untimely passing of Selena Quintanilla 21 years ago in Corpus Christi, TX, her memory and music have remained present. But unlike other years past, 2016 felt defining. This was the year with the most beautiful and remarkable tributes to the late tejano singer.
In the past 12 months, the Latino music community and Selena's old and new fans have been vocal, petitioning big brands to honor their idol and celebrating every win and tribute loudly. Thanks to them, Selena was not only recognized as the top Latino artist of the year at the Latin Billboard Music Awards [1], but was also included in the list of icons receiving a Hollywood Walk of Fame star in 2017 [2]. And, of course, it goes without mentioning that the singer's MAC Cosmetics collection [3] was a sensation, selling out in mere minutes and causing a frenzy of internet reactions [4]. And that wasn't even all. Keep reading to see 17 moments that made 2016 a great year for Selena's fans.
And Jackie Cruz Gave Us a Tear-Jerking Cover of "Como La Flor"
Excuse us while we try to pull ourselves together. Why did Jackie pick this song? [12] "It just reminds me a lot of a relationship I had in the past, and it's something I really connect to," she told Billboard.
Selena Won Top Latin Artist of the Year at the Latin Billboard Music Awards
Because her music is still everyone's favorite [13].
MAC Launched a Selena Collection Created by the Singer's Sister, Suzette Quintanilla
There were 13 gorgeous products [14], from a red lipstick named Como La Flor to the bronzer and blush duo called Techno Cumbia, and we wanted it all.
Madame Tussauds Debuted a Selena Wax Figure
And the resemblance was uncanny [17].
Elia Esparza Sang Selena's "Como La Flor" on The Voice
And the internet lost it — lost it! [18]
Desi Perkins Transformed Into Selena Using the MAC x Selena Collection
Desi loved the process [19]. We loved the tutorial. Thousands of people basically had this video on repeat.
Prince Royce Performed at the MAC x Selena Launch in Corpus Christi, TX
We couldn't think of a better person to honor Selena on such a day.
Suzette Quintanilla and Chris Perez Opened Up About Their Best Memories With the Singer
Selena's sister and husband told us they loved their one-on-one time with Selena post-shows, and her infectious laugh [21].
JoJo Performed "Dreaming of You" at Her Concert in Corpus Christi, TX
She knew it was the perfect place for a Selena tribute [22].
It Was Announced That a Selena TV Show Is in the Works
Chris announced on Facebook that the series will be based on his book To Selena, With Love [24]. We're not sure the show will happen, though, since Selena's dad, Abraham Quintanilla, is suing to stop production [25].
Wisin, Franki J, and Leslie Grace Remade "Si Una Vez"
They gave it a reggaeton beat [26] you'll just love.