Gloria Estefan's name might not be the first to come to mind in regards to successful female music artists but, she's one of the best selling artists of all time. Estefan has sold over 100 million records worldwide including an insane 31.5 million in the United States alone, making her the second most selling Latin American artist in the States behind Shakira. So, if you want to talk about international hits and popular music, Gloria Estefan is the one to ask.
Unfortunately, in 1991, during a snowstorm, while she on tour, her bus was struck by a semi-truck after she had just left from meeting President George Bush Sr. The accident had ultimately broken her back forcing her to cancel the remainder of her tour. Luckily, a year later she was able to step back into the limelight and continue her illustrious music career.