Selena

She broke through the barriers of the music industry in her roles as a performer, singer and designer. She was the first Mexican American singer who was traditional yet modern. She brought together both worlds and helped bring Tejano music into the mainstream. Her untimely death splintered her rising profile and as often happens when a glowing, charming superstar dies young, she caused many to grieve all the untapped potential. Over the years, fans were motivated to do their best to ensure that Selena's achievements would not be forgotten. Selena was the Tejano performer who tragically shot to death in a shooting accident, has sparked an Latino response that could be compared with the response to Elvis Presley's and John Lennon's death. Selena was a hugely popular Latino performer across North America. Her music transcended cultural barriers and touched the hearts of younger and more mature adults. Selena was a hot, flamboyant performer on stage that was frequently known as her as the Latina Madonna. Off-stage Selena was an excellent role model since she participated actively in antidrug and AIDS campaigns.