SAN ANTONIO — Earlier this year, Isabel Marie Sanchez paid tribute to the queen of Tejano music, Selena Quintanilla-Perez for three consecutive days. 

What You Need To Know

  • Isabel Marie Sanchez performed a tribute concert to Selena Quintanilla with the San Antonio Philharmonic

  • The concert showcased Selena's wide-reaching influence, extending even 30 years posthumously

  • A new documentary at Sundance Film Festival highlights Selena's early years and rise to fame

  • Selena’s enduring legacy continues through media and product lines

The “Selena Vive” concert marquee featured her alongside the San Antonio Philharmonic. 

“During the show you see little kids, you see the generations before them, generations before myself — it’s amazing,” Sanchez said. 

Selena Quintanilla’s family selected the Latin Grammy-nominated artist to perform in this concert across the country, including the Tejano capital of the world, San Antonio. Selena’s fame transcends regional boundaries, extending globally, even thirty years after her passing.

“It caught on to San Diego, San Francisco, Portland, Oregon, Denver,” Sanchez said. “It’s been a whirlwind.” 

Selena’s legacy continues to grow with clothing, makeup lines and even a Netflix series.

“Selena’s loyal fanbase, Selena’s loyal fans are amazing. They are so much fun they’re energetic,” Sanchez said. “They are so loving, they are accepting.” 

Fans, who are always wanting more, and this year, they’re getting it. The singer’s early years are featured in a Sundance Film Festival documentary titled “Selena Y Los Dinos.”  

Historian Ramón Hernández wasn’t part of producing the film, but saw the Quintanilla family’s humble beginnings. 

He photographed moments on the road when her star was still rising. 

“On the bus, sleeping on the floor, being sick, performing,” Hernández said. “Abraham working the sound board, Abraham having to do all of the driving. I never saw that guy sleep.” 

It’s a journey Hernández saw in person, and one he believes the public should see. 

“Her gift from god was her personality. I mean, she was sweet, she was outgoing, she was spontaneous, she loved life,” Hernández said. 

Hernández believes that’s why Selena has connected with fans to this day. 

“Selena was an inspiration to many girls,“ Hernández said.

Sanchez, similar to Selena and Hernández — whom she met at San Antonio’s Rosedale Park — found inspiration in her.

“2012, Sept. 19, to be exact,” Hernandez said. “After Carlos and his wife moved from Chicago to San Antonio, he brought Isabel Marie to this office for me to interview her.” 

Thirteen years later, Sanchez is still feeling Selena’s impact. 

“Selena’s been definitely been a guardian angel in my life, she’s definitely presented me with so many different opportunities,” Sanchez said. “So I really feel appreciative and really grateful.” 

Gone for 30 years, but still not forgotten.