Andrew Longoria | Courtesy photo
SAN ANTONIO, TX — In a remarkable celebration of Tejano music legend Selena Quintanilla-Perez, Andrew Longoria of San Antonio has officially broken the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of Selena memorabilia. The record, which stands at an astonishing 1,308 items, was officially recognized on June 28, 2024, in Lake Jackson, Texas, marking a milestone for both Longoria and the enduring legacy of the “Queen of Cumbia”.
A Journey Inspired by Family and Music
Andrew Longoria’s love for Selena began at a young age, but it was his deep connection with his grandmother’s Elvis Presley memorabilia that sparked the idea of starting his own collection. “It was really a tradition every year. I would gift her an Elvis item and slowly watched her collection build and then one day, when I was super young, I was like… ‘I want to, I want to do this too. I want to collect something,” Longoria shared in an interview with Fox San Antonio. His passion for Selena was nurtured by his admiration for her music and influence on the Latinx community.
The first piece that Longoria added to his collection was Selena’s iconic Dreaming of You album. This album holds a special place in his heart, as it was the catalyst for his growing interest in the star’s work. Longoria’s collection quickly expanded, and he dedicated himself to preserving artifacts and memorabilia that spanned the full scope of Selena’s career.
From Albums to Rare Artwork: A Collector’s Dream
Longoria’s Selena collection features a diverse range of items, from albums and posters to clothing, awards, and even rare, one-of-a-kind pieces. Among his collection, the crown jewel is a canvas painting of Selena in her Grammy dress, which remains Longoria’s most cherished item. “The one thing I love so much, and it’s my favorite out of everything,” Longoria said.
His dedication to the preservation of Selena’s memory and legacy is evident in the way he has carefully curated his collection. From rare vinyls to limited edition merchandise, Longoria’s memorabilia showcases the multifaceted career of Selena, from her early days in the music industry to her posthumous success and cultural impact.
Setting the World Record: A Dream Come True
Achieving the Guinness World Record for the largest Selena memorabilia collection is a testament to the Corpus Christi native’s unwavering dedication. Longoria said, “It’s bittersweet. I would have to say, honestly, just because my family was the driving force behind it and they weren’t able to see my dream become a reality.”
The record-breaking collection was verified by Guinness World Records in June 2024 and he recently received the certificate to prove it. Longoria’s achievement has become a point of pride for both his family and the Selena fan community. The milestone serves as a reminder of Selena’s lasting influence and the devotion of her fans, who continue to honor her legacy nearly three decades after her tragic passing.
A Legacy of Love and Tribute
For Longoria, his collection is more than just an assortment of items — it’s a tribute to Selena, a woman who inspired millions through her music, resilience, and cultural impact. “I literally thought it was going to be impossible… but like Selena said, ‘Impossible is always possible,’ and it’s very true,” Longoria said.
His journey to achieving the Guinness World Record has been filled with passion, perseverance, and a deep love for the late Tejano icon. Longoria’s collection not only serves as a personal tribute but also as a cultural archive that celebrates the enduring power of Selena’s music and legacy.
As the world continues to celebrate Selena’s influence on music and culture, Andrew Longoria’s achievement serves as a testament to the lasting power of Selena’s impact — a record-breaking collection that will undoubtedly inspire future generations of fans to carry on her memory.
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