Sammy Arriaga’s “Selena”: A Tequila-Soaked Tribute to Texas Romance
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Sammy Arriaga, the rising star blending country and Latin influences, has just dropped his latest single, “Selena,” and it’s a steamy, vibrant homage to unforgettable nights and the magic of unexpected connections. Forget your typical country ballad; this track transports you straight to a dimly lit cantina in San Antonio, where the air is thick with anticipation and the scent of tequila.
From the first strum, “Selena” pulls you into a world of instant chemistry. The lyrics, co-written by Arriaga with Brad Wagner and Brian Alexander, paint a vivid picture of passion igniting over Espolón shots and the iconic sounds of “Como La Flor” playing on a jukebox. It’s a magnetic blend of cross-cultural romance and undeniable charm that feels both classic and fresh.
Arriaga himself describes the inspiration behind the song, recalling a meeting in Texas that “really left her mark” on him. “We danced to ‘Como La Flor’ and from that day on, every time I hear a Selena song, I think of her and that moment,” he shared. He drew a parallel to Eric Church’s “Springsteen,” aiming to capture that same nostalgic, young-love feeling with a nod to a beloved artist. “‘Selena’ is my take on that, honoring one of my favorite artist’s legacies and bottling up that reminiscent feeling from that Texas dance floor.” This personal connection shines through, making the song feel incredibly authentic and heartfelt.
An Artist Breaking Boundaries
Arriaga isn’t just releasing a new song; he’s solidifying his place as a truly unique voice in the music industry. His brand—a seamless fusion of his Hispanic-American heritage and the country genre—is resonating deeply with fans. In recent months, his growth on social media has been nothing short of explosive, with hundreds of thousands of new followers across Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook since February 2024. This isn’t just about numbers; it’s a clear indication of his genuine ability to connect with an audience hungry for something different.
“I’ve always wanted to merge my background with the country genre,” Arriaga states, “I’m an artist that can wear that Hispanic-American crown proudly, because I was raised that way. It’s who I am. I speak it, I live it, I am it. So much of what I do celebrates that – many of my songs are also done in Spanish, and some Spanglish.” This commitment to his identity is what makes his music so compelling. He’s not just dabbling in different genres; he’s organically weaving them together to create something truly his own.
“Selena” is more than just a song; it’s an experience. It’s a testament to Sammy Arriaga’s artistic vision and his powerful ability to tell a story that feels both intimately personal and universally relatable. If you’re looking for a track that will make you want to dance, reminisce, and perhaps even pour yourself a shot of tequila, “Selena” is a must-add to your playlist.
Photo by Eric Ahlgrim.