Who is Suzette Quintanilla? The Woman Keeping Selena’s Legacy Alive
The world remembers Selena Quintanilla as the Queen of Tejano Music, a star whose life was tragically cut short. But behind every legend, there’s someone who carries their legacy forward. For Selena, that person is Suzette Quintanilla—her sister, drummer, and lifelong protector.
From playing alongside Selena in Selena y Los Dinos to managing the Selena Museum and Q Productions, Suzette has dedicated her life to honoring her sister’s memory. While the world mourned Selena, Suzette transformed grief into purpose, ensuring that Selena’s influence on Latin music never fades.
But Suzette is more than just “Selena’s sister.” She’s a businesswoman, a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a powerful advocate for Latina women in music. This article takes a deep dive into her life, career, husband, son, net worth, and how she continues to keep Selena’s spirit alive for future generations.
Early Life & Family Background
Suzette Quintanilla’s Age & Childhood
Born on June 29, 1967, in Lake Jackson, Texas, Suzette Quintanilla is the daughter of Abraham Quintanilla Jr. and Marcella Samora. She grew up in a musically inclined family, with her father being a former singer and producer.
Suzette, alongside her younger sister Selena Quintanilla and older brother A.B. Quintanilla III, was introduced to music at a young age. Their father, noticing their potential, formed the band Selena y Los Dinos, where Suzette played the drums, A.B. played the bass, and Selena was the lead vocalist.
Growing up, Suzette’s life revolved around music, rehearsals, and touring, which helped shape her professional career.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Suzette Michelle Quintanilla |
| Date of Birth | June 29, 1967 |
| Age (as of 2024) | 57 years old |
| Birthplace | Lake Jackson, Texas, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Parents | Abraham Quintanilla Jr. (Father), Marcella Samora (Mother) |
| Siblings | Selena Quintanilla (Sister), A.B. Quintanilla III (Brother) |
| Profession | Former Drummer, CEO of Q Productions |
| Known For | Selena’s Sister, Member of Selena y Los Dinos, Managing Selena’s Legacy |
Music Career & Life in ‘Selena y Los Dinos’
Drummer for Selena’s Band
Suzette Quintanilla was the drummer for Selena y Los Dinos, playing a significant role in shaping the band’s sound. Despite female drummers being rare in the Tejano music scene, she excelled and supported Selena as the band gained popularity.
The group toured extensively across Texas and Mexico, performing at weddings, fairs, and music festivals. Over the years, Selena y Los Dinos became a household name, setting the foundation for Selena’s rise to fame.
Why Suzette Quit Drumming?
In 1995, tragedy struck when Selena was murdered by her fan club president, Yolanda Saldívar. After Selena’s passing, Suzette decided to step away from performing.
In an interview, she expressed:
“Playing the drums was something I did for Selena. After she was gone, I no longer had the same passion to continue.”
Instead, Suzette transitioned into managing the family’s music business, ensuring Selena’s name lived on through projects like the Selena Museum and other ventures.
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Suzette Quintanilla’s Role in Preserving Selena’s Legacy
After Selena’s death, the Quintanilla family focused on keeping her memory alive. Suzette took on key leadership roles in various projects to honor her sister’s impact.
Selena Museum & Q Productions
Suzette currently serves as the CEO of Q Productions, the family’s music production company based in Corpus Christi, Texas. She oversees:
- The Selena Museum, which holds Selena’s costumes, awards, and memorabilia.
- Music production projects, managing Selena’s posthumous releases and merchandise.
She often shares updates about Selena’s legacy through public appearances and social media, ensuring new generations continue to learn about the late singer’s contributions to Latin music.
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Suzette spoke about why she remains committed to preserving her sister’s memory:
“I always say Selena was my little sister, but she was also a force. Our job as a family is to make sure her impact never fades. That’s what keeps me going.”
Netflix’s ‘Selena: The Series’
Suzette worked as an executive producer on ‘Selena: The Series,’ ensuring accuracy in telling Selena’s story. In an interview with Billboard, she stated, ‘This was not just about Selena, but about our family’s struggle, sacrifice, and success together.’ As an executive producer, she helped ensure the series accurately depicted Selena’s journey.
During an interview, she stated:
“This was not just about Selena but about our family’s struggle, sacrifice, and success together.”
Her involvement in the show demonstrated her dedication to telling Selena’s story authentically while celebrating their family’s achievements.
Suzette Quintanilla’s Personal Life
Who Is Suzette Quintanilla’s Husband?
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Suzette is married to Bill Arriaga. The couple tied the knot in 1993 and have been together for over 30 years.
Unlike the Quintanilla family, Bill Arriaga is not in the entertainment industry. He keeps a low profile, avoiding the public eye, but has supported Suzette throughout the years.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Husband | Bill Arriaga |
| Marriage Year | 1993 |
| Children | One Son (Jovan Arriaga) |
Suzette Quintanilla’s Son
Suzette and Bill have a son named Jovan Arriaga, who was born in 1998. Jovan, now in his mid-20s, resembles Selena, which has caught public attention.
Unlike his mother, Jovan has not pursued a music career, choosing to focus on sports and academics instead.
See Also | Giani Quintanilla: A Glimpse into the Life of A.B. Quintanilla’s Son
Suzette Quintanilla’s Net Worth & Business Ventures
How Much is Suzette Quintanilla Worth?
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Suzette Quintanilla’s net worth ranges between $3 million and $5 million, largely from her leadership at Q Productions, the Selena Museum, and ongoing licensing deals.
Her wealth comes from:
- Q Productions – The family’s music company.
- Selena Museum – A major tourist attraction.
- Netflix Royalties – From Selena: The Series.
- Merchandising & Licensing – Official Selena merchandise.
Suzette Quintanilla’s Height & Physical Appearance
Suzette stands at approximately 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm).
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) |
| Weight | Around 70 kg (154 lbs) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
Suzette Quintanilla’s Influence & Public Appearances
Despite stepping away from the stage, Suzette remains a respected figure in Latin music. She continues to represent the Quintanilla family in various public events, including:
- Selena Tribute Concerts
- Interviews about Selena’s Impact
- Music Industry Conferences
She actively uses her platform to celebrate Selena’s legacy and advocate for Latin artists in the industry.
Suzette Quintanilla’s Continued Role in Music and Media
Honoring Selena’s Legacy Through Music and Events
Even though Suzette no longer performs as a drummer, she continues to support the Latin music industry through Selena-related projects and industry events.
She actively participates in:
- Selena Tribute Concerts – These events celebrate Selena’s music and bring together new and old fans.
- Latin Music Conferences – Suzette speaks about Selena’s impact on Latin music and female empowerment.
- Selena’s Posthumous Music Releases – She ensures Selena’s unreleased recordings are properly produced and preserved.
Suzette has been vocal about how Latin music has grown over the years, giving credit to Selena’s influence on future generations of artists.
Suzette’s Presence in Media and Documentaries
According to People, Suzette has actively participated in various documentaries and TV specials about Selena. She contributed to projects like E! True Hollywood Story: Selena (1999) and Selena Remembered (1997), ensuring her sister’s legacy is told authentically.
Some major projects she has contributed to include:
| Media Project | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Selena (Movie) | 1997 | Played by Jackie Guerra |
| Selena: The Series (Netflix) | 2020-2021 | Executive Producer |
| E! True Hollywood Story: Selena | 1999 | Featured Interviewee |
| Selena Remembered | 1997 | Contributor |
| Selena Vive! (Tribute Concert) | 2005 | Event Coordinator |
Her involvement in these projects ensures Selena’s legacy remains authentic and accurate.
Philanthropy and Community Work
Beyond music, Suzette is passionate about giving back to the community.
Selena Foundation
Suzette helps manage the Selena Foundation, a nonprofit organization started by the Quintanilla family. The foundation focuses on:
- Scholarships for Latino Students – Helping underprivileged students pursue their education.
- Music Programs – Supporting young artists who aspire to follow in Selena’s footsteps.
- Community Support – Donations to charities and organizations that empower Hispanic communities.
Supporting Women in Music
As a female drummer in a male-dominated industry, Suzette understands the struggles that women in music face. She works with organizations that support women in entertainment, helping young female musicians gain opportunities in the industry.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How old is Suzette Quintanilla?
Suzette was born on June 29, 1967, making her 57 years old as of 2024.
What does Suzette Quintanilla do now?
She is the CEO of Q Productions, manages the Selena Museum, and continues to preserve Selena’s legacy through music, media, and events.
Who is Suzette Quintanilla’s husband?
Suzette and Bill Arriaga have been married since 1993.
Does Suzette Quintanilla have children?
Yes, she has one son, Jovan Arriaga, born in 1998.
What is Suzette Quintanilla’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is $3 million – $5 million, mainly from Q Productions, the Selena Museum, and media projects.
Why did Suzette Quintanilla stop playing drums?
After Selena’s death in 1995, Suzette stepped away from performing, stating:
“I played drums for Selena. Without her, I lost my passion for music.”
What is the Selena Museum?
Located in Corpus Christi, Texas, the Selena Museum houses Selena’s:
- Stage outfits
- Awards
- Personal items
- Recording studio
- Iconic red Porsche
Suzette plays a major role in maintaining and promoting the museum.
Is Suzette Quintanilla on social media?
Yes, she is active on Instagram (@suzettesyld), where she shares Selena-related updates and family moments.
Final Thoughts: Suzette Quintanilla’s Lasting Influence
Suzette Quintanilla has dedicated her life to preserving Selena’s memory. As a former drummer, businesswoman, philanthropist, and family representative, she ensures Selena’s impact remains alive for future generations. Her work in music, media, and philanthropy continues to celebrate Selena’s legacy and inspire millions.
Call-to-Action
Suzette Quintanilla has dedicated her life to preserving Selena’s memory, ensuring that her music and impact continue to inspire new generations. From managing Q Productions to overseeing the Selena Museum, she plays a vital role in keeping the Quintanilla family’s legacy strong.
