Selena

She was a singer, performer and designer and broke down barriers in the world of music. She was a contemporary and traditional a Mexican-American singer who brought together the two realms of music in an unison way. And she provided amazing Tejano music to an affluent public. She was a rising star who's tragic death threw it into turmoil. And as is common with a talented, charismatic young performer is lost too quickly and is buried, many mourned the greatness she was yet to reach. Fans have struggled throughout the years to ensure that her legacy is kept alive. Selena's tragic murder by a gunman caused an outpouring of emotion in Latino communities, similar the way people reacted following the death of Elvis Presley and John Lennon's. Selena was an extremely loved Latino singer across North America. Her music transcended cultural barriers and brought joy to younger and more mature adults. Selena may have been hailed by certain people as the Latina Madonna, but she's still an excellent role model. Selena's off-stage family values and involvement with AIDS awareness efforts are exemplary.