Selena Gomez discovered it five years ago. With Rare, her third studio album as a solo artist, the former Disney Channel star turned multifaceted superstar distilled her musical talents into a sleek and exquisite dance-pop record, filled with empowering lyrics and catchy mid-tempo melodies that perfectly showcased her unique tone. Gomez received the best reviews of her career; she also achieved her first No. 1 on the Hot 100 with the still impressive self-acceptance ballad “Lose You to Love Me.” And it seems she unlocked exactly the type of pop star she wanted to be. After Rare, Gomez focused on other successful creative projects: the television series Only Murders in the Building, the cooking show Selena + Chef, collaborations like Blackpink’s “Ice Cream” and Rema’s “Calm Down” remix, a supporting role in the Oscar-winning film Emilia Pérez, in addition to her major business and commercial deals. These projects, understandably, have kept Gomez busy, and although she released some solo music, the next proper album never materialized. I Said I Love You First is that long-awaited follow-up, and at the same time, it isn’t. The new album is credited to Gomez and Benny Blanco, her longtime romantic partner and new fiancé, who happens to be one of the most prominent pop producers of the last 15 years. While other producers help shape the album’s sound, I Said I Love You First is a creative collaboration between two halves of a shared heart, and Blanco’s sonic influence exists in direct conversation with Gomez’s lyrical delivery. There’s a reason why the album cover shows Gomez and Blanco through a keyhole: I Said I Love You First presents itself as an intimate look, not a big-budget spectacle. And yet, fans of Rare will find plenty to embrace here. Gomez is a seasoned pop performer who understands the contours of her voice and how to imbue a verse with emotional impact. Whether reflecting on past failed romances or toasting to the life she and Blanco have built together, she remains a nuanced performer who rises to meet the moment in front of her. Whether grooving to a dance beat or whispering over an acoustic haze, Gomez makes the love story that Blanco helped construct on I Said I Love You First accessible to the world, and ultimately adds a compelling new entry to her catalog. Which songs from Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco’s collaborative album stand out on first listen? Check out our preliminary ranking of all the songs on I Said I Love You First.
1. “I Said I Love You First” – The title track and lead single from the album, “I Said I Love You First” sets the tone for the rest of the record. It’s a catchy and upbeat pop song that showcases Gomez’s vocals and Blanco’s production skills. The lyrics are a declaration of love and commitment, making it a perfect introduction to the album.
2. “Deja Vu” – This track has a dreamy and nostalgic vibe, with Gomez reflecting on a past relationship that keeps coming back to haunt her. The production is layered and dynamic, with a mix of electronic and acoustic elements that create a unique sound.
3. “Love Me Like You Do” – A standout track on the album, “Love Me Like You Do” is a sultry and seductive song that showcases Gomez’s vocal range. The lyrics are sensual and intimate, with Gomez singing about wanting to be loved and desired.
4. “I Don’t Want to Lose You” – This emotional ballad is a highlight of the album, with Gomez’s vocals soaring over a simple piano melody. The lyrics are raw and vulnerable, with Gomez expressing her fear of losing the person she loves.
5. “Better Together” – A fun and upbeat track, “Better Together” is a celebration of love and partnership. The production is energetic and catchy, with a mix of electronic and acoustic elements that make it a perfect song to dance to.
6. “In Your Arms” – This track has a more stripped-down production, with Gomez’s vocals taking center stage. The lyrics are romantic and heartfelt, with Gomez singing about finding comfort and safety in the arms of her loved one.
7. “The Way You Make Me Feel” – Another sultry and seductive track, “The Way You Make Me Feel” is a love song that showcases Gomez’s vocal abilities. The production is smooth and sensual, with a mix of electronic and R&B elements that create a captivating sound.
8. “All I Need” – This track has a more laid-back and mellow vibe, with Gomez’s vocals floating over a simple guitar melody. The lyrics are sweet and romantic, with Gomez singing about being content and happy with the person she loves.
9. “Falling for You” – A catchy and upbeat track, “Falling for You” is a love song that showcases Gomez’s vocal range. The production is dynamic and energetic, with a mix of electronic and acoustic elements that make it a perfect song to sing along to.
10. “Together Forever” – The closing track of the album, “Together Forever” is a heartfelt and emotional ballad that showcases Gomez’s vulnerability. The lyrics are a promise of eternal love and commitment, making it a perfect ending to the album.
Overall, I Said I Love You First is a strong and cohesive album that showcases Gomez’s growth as an artist and Blanco’s production skills. The songs are catchy and well-crafted, with lyrics that are relatable and heartfelt. It’s a testament to the creative chemistry between Gomez and Blanco, and a promising sign of what’s to come from this talented duo.