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Women Who Shaped Tejano Music

Women in Tejano Music

Tejano music has a rich history woven with the voices of powerful, passionate women who pushed boundaries, reshaped the genre, and left an unforgettable legacy. These artists not only brought unique sounds and stories to Tejano, but they also inspired generations of performers across the Latin music spectrum. Below are some of the most influential women in Tejano music, their inspirations, accomplishments, collaborations, and what they are up to today.


Selena Quintanilla

Influenced by: Gloria Estefan, Donna Summer, her father Abraham Quintanilla’s musical background

Accomplishments:

  • First female Tejano artist to win a Grammy Award (1994)
  • Released multi-platinum albums like “Amor Prohibido” and “Ven Conmigo”
  • Elevated Tejano music to mainstream pop culture

Collaborations:

  • Worked with her band Los Dinos
  • Collaborated with A.B. Quintanilla and Chris Perez

Today: Though tragically killed in 1995, her legacy lives on through the Selena Museum, a Netflix series, and ongoing tribute events and festivals in her honor.


Shelly Lares

Influenced by: Patsy Cline, Little Joe, and her family’s musical roots

Accomplishments:

  • Over 40 years in the Tejano industry
  • Multiple Tejano Music Awards, including Female Vocalist of the Year
  • Known for blending country with Tejano

Collaborations:

  • Worked with Jay Perez, Stefani Montiel, and David Marez

Today: Continues to perform, advocate for women in music, and released her final studio album in 2022.


Stefani Montiel

Influenced by: Selena, Gloria Estefan, and soul music

Accomplishments:

  • Tejano Music Awards Female Entertainer of the Year
  • Known for modernizing the Tejano sound with electronic and pop elements
  • Hosts “Tejano America” digital series

Collaborations:

  • AJ Castillo, Las 3 Divas, and Shelly Lares

Today: Actively touring and recording, and involved in branding and fashion ventures.


Elida Reyna

Influenced by: Laura Canales, Linda Ronstadt

Accomplishments:

  • Lead singer of Elida Reyna y Avante
  • Won multiple Tejano Music Awards, including Female Vocalist and Song of the Year
  • Key figure in the “Women of Tejano” movement

Collaborations:

  • Performed with Shelly Lares, Stefani Montiel, and Las 3 Divas

Today: Continues to record and tour with Avante, and participates in projects empowering Latina artists.


Isabel Marie Sanchez

Influenced by: Selena, Celine Dion, Mariah Carey

Accomplishments:

  • Winner of “Sabado Gigante” talent competition
  • Youngest female signed to Q-Productions
  • Nominated for Tejano Music Awards in multiple categories

Collaborations:

  • Worked with Abraham Quintanilla, Los Palominos

Today: Actively performing, recording new music, and emerging as a new-generation Tejano star.


Monica Saldivar

Influenced by: Jennifer Pena, Elida Reyna

Accomplishments:

  • 2020 winner of the “Premio Tejano Mundial Female Vocalist of the Year”
  • Known for her powerful vocal range and stage presence

Collaborations:

  • Performed with Chente Barrera and Shelly Lares

Today: Touring across Texas and expanding her fan base with modern Tejano pop fusion.


These women have not only shaped the sound of Tejano music but also paved the way for future artists to innovate, explore, and celebrate their culture. Their stories continue to inspire fans and musicians across generations.

 

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