"She’s a light to so many": Becky G reflects on Selena Quintanilla's influence in music, 30 years after her death

It has been 30 years since we lost the well-known American-Mexican singer Selena Quintanilla. She reportedly passed away after being tragically shot on March 31, 1995.

The "Queen of Tejano Music” continues to resonate with fans and inspire new generations of artists even decades after her tragic death. Her music, characterized by a blend of Tejano, pop, and cumbia, produced numerous hits like Amor Prohibido, Bidi Bidi Bom Bom, Como la Flor, and Donde Quieras Que Estes.

Recently, Becky G (real name Rebbeca Marie Gomez) spoke with Billboard, reflecting upon Selena's musical legacy. She said:

“So many artists throughout the years since her passing may have reminded us of her essence, but there will never be another Selena. She was one of a kind — and that’s what makes a true superstar. Selena’s legacy is to admire, to respect, and to continue protecting, because she’s a light to so many of us.”

She also mentioned how Quintanilla influenced her career.

Here is what we know.

Read more: “Your incredible legacy will live on forever": Beyoncé Honors R&B Icon Angie Stone with Emotional Tribute

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How did Selena Quintanilla become an inspiration for Becky G?

Selena Quintanilla has been an inspiration for Becky G since she was a kid. In an interview with Billboard, she shared how she grew up listening to the former's songs. The 27-year-old told the outlet that the late singer aspired to become an actress as well, as she wanted to audition when her mom, Alejandra, was doing casting calls.

She further explained how the songstress inspired her career and cultural identity. She said:

“She’s influenced my career in so many ways. As a performer, she represented so much more than just herself. She started building a bridge for the 200 percenters like myself, who [are] no eran de aqui ni de alla (neither from here nor from there).”

Her admiration for the Texan legend is not new. According to a report in People magazine, in 2015, she paid tribute to the late singer through an appreciation post.

"Selena is one of my biggest inspirations. Beyond just her music, her way of being with her family and fans was so special and so relatable. Every show, interview, and song had something special. Thankful for the path she had created for young women like myself to be ourselves." She wrote.

Becky-G told Billboard as she mentioned her Coachella tribute:

“At Coachella in 2023, I decided to pay tribute to her. A part of me does it for Little Becky, because I think what Little Becky saw in Selena was that dreams can come true, and it’s almost a celebration of being here and of her.”

Last year, according to a report in Hola! magazine, she once again paid a tribute to Quintanilla when she performed in Los Angeles. She sang a medley of Selena's greatest hits, including Como La Flor, La Carcacha, Bidi Bidi Bom Bom, and Baila Esta Cumbia. In the same year, she showed her admiration for the singer during the Baja Beach Fest.