Jenni Rivera Fans Pay Tribute: "She's My Idol, She's My Everything"

Dec. 11, 2012— -- There's no question that Jenni Rivera had legions of fans, both in the United States and Mexico. But what's in the DNA of a prototypical Jenni Rivera fan? It's a question we set out to answer by heading to Plaza Mexico in Lynwood, Calif., on Monday. We found families mourning the loss and celebrating the life of the 43-year-old banda superstar, who died in a plane crash on Sunday.

See Also: Jenni Rivera: 10 Career Highlights

Though Rivera appealed to both men and women, she had a special connection with her female fans, who related to her on many levels. Rivera's personal struggles—from teen pregnancy to domestic abuse – inspired women of multiple generations.

For them, Rivera embodied perseverance and strength, as well as the special bond between a mother and a daughter.