20 of the Best Selena Songs to Add to Your Playlist
With all the hype on social media regarding the December 4th premiere of Netflix’s Selena: The Series, I decided to compile a playlist of my favorite Selena songs. If it was up to me, I’d add them all. I was excited to hear about the series, but I have to admit, I did cringe at some of the teasers I’ve seen. I have been a Selena fan since forever. I always wished she would have come out with a full freestyle record back in the 90s. Just like with the Selena movie, fans’ expectations are high. We don’t want to see La Reina de Tejano portrayed in something that looks like an episode of Saved By the Bell, no offense. Her fans know her smile, the way she turns, the curves of her hand when she dances, and her laugh. Just like so many of us, I remember exactly where I was the day the news broke that Selena had left us. I was in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood, at Los Dos Laredos restaurant, having lunch with my friend’s family. Everyone at the restaurant was in shock and crying. My friend’s mom was consoling us both. I felt like I lost a big sister.
Like so many Mexican-American girls, I saw Selena as the very first brown girl who made it. A brown girl who was like me. Not Mexican enough, not American enough but perfectly imperfect. This is why 25 years later, her impact is just as strong if not stronger than ever. She continues to be cherished, her music continues to be a staple in the Latino culture, and Brown girls everywhere continue to look up to her. I have no doubt that in another 25 years she will continue to be just as relevant. And for these reasons, fans expect nothing but perfection from anyone who shares Her story.
Below are a Spotify and Apple playlist of some of her best music. I know I missed some great songs, but they’re all great! Let us know what your favorite is and we’ll update our list.
Cynthia Chavarria is a writer who works at Getty Images in Chicago for the Latin American region. She also serves on Getty Images' Diversity and Inclusion Global Advisory Committee. Cynthia is passionate about staying socially aware, supporting her community, and giving back.