Selena Gomez has become a global pop sensation, captivating millions with her soulful voice, relatable lyrics, and infectious beats. From her early days as a Disney star to her meteoric rise as a chart-topping artist, Selena has consistently delivered iconic tracks that have defined an entire generation. Whether she’s pouring her heart out in a vulnerable ballad or making us dance with an irresistible pop anthem, her music has left an indelible mark on the industry.
In this article, we’re diving deep into the top 10 most popular Selena Gomez songs of all time. These are the tracks that dominated the charts, broke streaming records, and became anthems for fans around the world. From emotional powerhouses like “The Heart Wants What It Wants” to dance-floor hits like “Come & Get It,” these Selena classics are more than just songs—they’re cultural moments.
Get ready to relive the music that made you fall in love with Selena all over again. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering her talent, this list will remind you why Selena Gomez has become one of the most beloved pop stars of our time. Let’s dive in!
1. Come & Get It (2013)
Released in 2013 as the lead single from Selena Gomez’s debut solo album Stars Dance, “Come & Get It” marked a significant evolution in her musical career. The song’s blend of sultry pop and Bollywood-inspired beats created a captivating fusion that showcased a more mature and confident side of Selena. With its infectious hooks, exotic rhythms, and catchy chorus, it was clear that Selena was ready to step into the spotlight as a solo artist. The song’s lyrics, which express the thrilling excitement of love on one’s own terms, resonated with fans worldwide, contributing to its commercial success. “Come & Get It” reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying Selena’s place in the pop scene as she ventured out from her previous work with her band, Selena Gomez & the Scene.
The production of “Come & Get It” played a huge role in its appeal. Its hypnotic, tribal-like beats and smooth, breathy vocals gave the song a sensual, almost mystical vibe. The blending of western pop sensibilities with eastern influences made for a sound that felt both fresh and unique. The track became a staple of Selena’s music catalog, representing her transition into a more mature, solo sound. Its success wasn’t just about the music—it was also about Selena’s image. She shed the more innocent persona that had been associated with her early career, presenting herself as an empowered and confident woman who could captivate audiences with her charm and sensuality.
The music video for “Come & Get It” mirrored the song’s boldness and exotic feel. Selena, adorned in flowing, ethereal garments, was seen dancing with abandon, surrounded by vibrant, cultural imagery. The video’s visuals helped solidify the song’s connection to its Bollywood influences, creating a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience for viewers. Ultimately, “Come & Get It” marked a defining moment in Selena’s career, proving that she was ready to dominate the pop world with her own voice and unique sound.
2. The Heart Wants What It Wants (2014)
In 2014, Selena Gomez released one of her most emotionally charged tracks, “The Heart Wants What It Wants.” The song was part of her For You compilation album, and it offered an intimate look into her personal struggles with love and heartbreak. The ballad’s melancholy melody and somber tones were a stark contrast to the upbeat pop anthems she had released before, and it immediately captured the attention of listeners who were drawn to the raw vulnerability in Selena’s voice. “The Heart Wants What It Wants” was an anthem for anyone who had ever been caught in the complexity of love, unable to control the emotions that tug at the heart. Selena’s voice, tinged with pain and longing, gave the song an authenticity that resonated deeply with her fans, who could hear the real emotional struggle in every note.
The song’s production was haunting and minimalistic, with soft piano chords and subtle orchestral arrangements that perfectly matched the gravity of the lyrics. Selena’s delivery was especially striking—there was no artifice, no pretense—just an honest, heart-wrenching performance that conveyed a sense of emotional turmoil. The lyrics describe a love that defies reason, a love that hurts but also pulls you in despite the pain. This theme of surrendering to love, even when it’s not good for you, struck a chord with many listeners, who saw their own experiences reflected in the song.
The accompanying music video, shot in black and white, only heightened the emotional impact of the song. Selena’s expressive face, captured in close-up shots, conveyed all the vulnerability and rawness that the lyrics evoke. There was an undeniable sense of fragility in the video, as Selena exposed her deepest emotions to the world. “The Heart Wants What It Wants” became one of Selena’s most beloved and critically acclaimed songs, marking a turning point in her career as an artist unafraid to showcase her emotional depth and honesty. It became clear that Selena was no longer just a pop star; she was an artist capable of conveying universal human experiences through her music.
3. Good for You (2015)
With the release of “Good for You” in 2015, Selena Gomez introduced a completely new side of herself as an artist. The track, featuring rapper A$AP Rocky, was a sultry and seductive departure from her earlier pop hits, establishing a more mature and intimate persona for Selena. It was the lead single from her Revival album, and it marked a significant shift in her sound and style. The song’s minimalist production, paired with Selena’s breathy and alluring vocals, created a sensual atmosphere that set the stage for the album’s themes of self-discovery and empowerment. “Good for You” is a celebration of personal confidence and embracing one’s own allure, and it resonated with fans who could relate to the feeling of being in control of their own narrative.
The song’s stripped-down production, which features a smooth combination of electronic beats and subtle instrumentation, places Selena’s voice front and center, allowing her to fully command the listener’s attention. Her vocal performance is confident and understated, drawing out the sensuality in every lyric. The lyrics themselves are playful and intimate, describing a person who has reached a place of self-assuredness and knows exactly what they want in a relationship. Selena’s collaboration with A$AP Rocky brought an added layer of intrigue to the track, with his verses complementing her smooth delivery and providing an interesting contrast in energy.
“Good for You” quickly became a commercial success, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of Selena’s most iconic hits. The song’s success marked a new chapter in her career, as it signified her transition from a Disney star into a mature, versatile artist capable of experimenting with different genres. The music video, which features Selena in various glamorous and stylish settings, reinforced the song’s themes of self-assurance and beauty. It was a visual manifestation of the song’s message: embracing one’s true self and owning it. “Good for You” showcased Selena’s growth as both a singer and an artist, earning her the respect and admiration of both fans and critics alike.
4. Same Old Love (2015)
“Same Old Love,” released in 2015 as the second single from Selena Gomez’s Revival album, quickly became a fan favorite and another hit in her growing solo catalog. The song, co-written by chart-topping artist Charli XCX, is a reflection on the emotional toll of toxic relationships and the decision to move on from patterns that no longer serve you. With its catchy chorus, infectious piano-driven melody, and anthemic feel, “Same Old Love” captured the frustration of being stuck in a repetitive, unhealthy cycle. For many listeners, the song became a rallying cry for reclaiming one’s worth and breaking free from the chains of the past.
Lyrically, “Same Old Love” presents a vulnerable but empowered Selena, who is singing about the struggle of trying to break free from a relationship that keeps pulling her back. The lyrics are a powerful reminder that, despite the emotional attachment, it’s often necessary to let go in order to grow. The chorus’s infectious hook—”I used to love you, but now I’m so over you”—became an anthem of self-liberation for many fans. The song’s blend of pop, synths, and R&B elements made it stand out from other songs in the same genre, and its accessibility helped it become a chart-topping success.
“Same Old Love” peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and went on to become one of Selena’s most recognizable tracks. The success of the song reinforced her growing status as a pop powerhouse and her ability to craft songs that resonated with a wide audience. The accompanying music video, which features Selena navigating a series of emotional moments, adds another layer of depth to the song’s message. The visual aesthetic is both striking and poignant, reinforcing the themes of independence and personal growth. Through “Same Old Love,” Selena showed that she could capture the complexities of modern love while creating a song that was both commercially successful and emotionally resonant.
5. Hands to Myself (2015)
Released as the third single from Selena Gomez’s Revival album, “Hands to Myself” was a sultry, flirtatious track that further solidified her status as a mature pop artist. The song’s production was sleek and minimalist, driven by smooth electronic beats and subtle instrumentation that allowed Selena’s breathy vocals to take center stage. The song was an exploration of desire, self-restraint, and the excitement of being drawn to someone you can’t quite have. The lyrics were playful, yet laden with sexual tension, capturing the feeling of wanting someone so badly that you can’t control your impulses. It was a bold and confident move from Selena, showcasing a more daring side to her music and persona.
The song’s infectious hook—“I can’t keep my hands to myself”—quickly became a fan favorite, with many listeners drawn to the song’s catchy melody and cheeky, seductive energy. The minimalist production, which focused on atmospheric beats and a sensual groove, made “Hands to Myself” stand out from the more bombastic pop songs of the time. The track marked a significant step in Selena’s artistic evolution, as it showcased her ability to create a song that was both commercial and critically successful, while also offering a more mature perspective on love and lust.
“Hands to Myself” peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming another hit for Selena. The accompanying music video, which featured Selena in a series of flirtatious and seductive scenarios, further emphasized the song’s themes of desire and control. The video’s striking visuals and sensual tone aligned perfectly with the track’s lyrics, enhancing its impact. Through “Hands to Myself,” Selena proved that she was more than just a pop star—she was a dynamic artist capable of pushing the boundaries of her genre while staying true to herself.
6. Kill Em with Kindness (2016)
Released in 2016 as the fourth single from Revival, “Kill Em with Kindness” stands as one of Selena Gomez’s most powerful and uplifting anthems. The song’s message of responding to negativity and hatred with kindness struck a chord during a time when social media and online culture were rife with toxicity and division. The track’s infectious dance beats paired with its positive, empowering lyrics made it not only a catchy tune but also a reminder of the power of compassion. “Kill Em with Kindness” encourages listeners to rise above conflict and embrace peace, offering a refreshing alternative to the often combative and hostile attitudes prevalent in the digital world.
The song’s production is an upbeat fusion of dance-pop and electropop, with a groove that’s both infectious and feel-good. Selena’s vocals are confident and serene, delivering the song’s message with a sense of calm assurance. The lyrics suggest that the best way to deal with critics and haters is to simply rise above them and respond with grace, turning negativity into positivity. This theme of peace and self-possession resonated with fans, especially those who may have experienced the harsh realities of online bullying or personal conflict.
“Kill Em with Kindness” reached the Top 40 in multiple countries and quickly became a favorite among Selena’s fans for its empowering message and infectious energy. The music video, which features Selena confidently navigating a world of negativity, adds to the song’s theme of rising above adversity. With its vivid colors, playful choreography, and positive visuals, the video served as a perfect complement to the song’s encouraging message. Through “Kill Em with Kindness,” Selena not only gave her fans a catchy pop song but also a reminder that kindness can be a weapon against hate and a force for good in the world.
7. Bad Liar (2017)
In 2017, Selena Gomez released “Bad Liar,” a track that marked a bold shift in her musical style and approach. The song, which samples Talking Heads’ iconic “Psycho Killer,” showcases a more experimental and quirky side of Selena. Gone were the more mainstream pop sounds of her previous hits, replaced by minimalist production and conversational, almost understated vocals. “Bad Liar” is an exploration of the internal struggle of hiding emotions, particularly in a relationship where one is trying to keep secrets while feeling overwhelmed by desire. The lyrics are clever and introspective, offering a layered narrative about the complexity of love and deception.
The production of “Bad Liar” is what truly sets it apart. The song’s stripped-back instrumentation, featuring a snaking bassline and sparse beats, creates an atmosphere that is both hypnotic and intriguing. Selena’s vocals are delicate and vulnerable, allowing the lyrics to stand out in a way that is both subtle and captivating. The track plays with rhythm and melody in a way that feels fresh and experimental, marking a new phase in Selena’s artistic evolution. Rather than delivering a straightforward pop song, she offered something more nuanced and unexpected.
Critically, “Bad Liar” was praised for its innovation and creativity, earning a spot on multiple year-end best-of lists. The song peaked at No. 20 on the Billboard Hot 100, a testament to its impact despite its departure from mainstream pop conventions. The accompanying music video, which features Selena playing multiple characters, complements the song’s themes of deception and identity. Through “Bad Liar,” Selena showed that she wasn’t just following trends but was willing to push the boundaries of pop music and explore new, uncharted territory.
8. Wolves (2017)
In 2017, Selena Gomez joined forces with EDM producer Marshmello for the track “Wolves,” which blends electronic dance music with pop to create a powerful anthem about resilience and emotional strength. The song is an exploration of the vulnerability and determination that comes with navigating a challenging relationship. Selena’s ethereal vocals glide over the track’s deep, pulsating beats, adding an otherworldly layer to the song’s haunting, yet hopeful, atmosphere. “Wolves” speaks to the tension of emotional battles and the desire to fight for love and understanding in the face of adversity.
The production of “Wolves” is built on a thumping bassline and a combination of atmospheric synths and echoing beats, creating an intense emotional depth. The song’s lyrics describe the emotional rollercoaster of trying to overcome struggles, both internal and external, and finding the strength to keep going. With lines like “I’m a fighter, I’m a survivor,” the song reflects themes of perseverance and resilience that resonate with listeners who have experienced personal challenges. The collaboration with Marshmello brought a new, electronic-driven dimension to Selena’s music, further expanding her versatility as an artist.
“Wolves” was a commercial success, charting in the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the charts in several countries. Its captivating beat, combined with Selena’s poignant vocal delivery, made it a favorite on dance floors and radio stations alike. The music video, which features Selena in an ethereal, dreamlike world, visually complements the song’s themes of emotional struggle and strength. Through “Wolves,” Selena demonstrated her ability to seamlessly blend pop and electronic music while delivering a powerful message about overcoming adversity and finding strength in the face of uncertainty.
9. Lose You to Love Me (2019)
In 2019, Selena Gomez released “Lose You to Love Me,” a deeply emotional ballad that marked one of the most personal and raw moments in her career. The song, which was the lead single from her album Rare, explores themes of self-love, healing, and growth following a painful breakup. With its stripped-back production and heartfelt lyrics, “Lose You to Love Me” showcased Selena’s vulnerability and emotional depth in a way that connected with listeners on a deeply personal level. The song was a cathartic release for both Selena and her fans, as it captured the universal experience of letting go in order to rediscover one’s true self.
The production of “Lose You to Love Me” is minimalistic, with sparse piano arrangements and soft electronic flourishes that allow Selena’s voice to take center stage. Her vocal delivery is emotionally charged, capturing the pain and liberation that comes with the end of a relationship. The lyrics describe the journey of self-discovery, acknowledging the hurt of love lost while recognizing the necessity of that loss in order to move forward. The song’s poignant message resonated with many listeners, particularly those who had gone through similar emotional experiences.
“Lose You to Love Me” became a major commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and marking Selena’s first-ever No. 1 single. The song’s success not only demonstrated her ability to create deeply emotional music, but it also cemented her status as a pop icon capable of breaking new ground in the industry. The music video, shot in one continuous take, visually mirrored the song’s themes of clarity and realization, with Selena’s raw emotion captured in every frame. “Lose You to Love Me” was a defining moment in Selena’s career, proving her artistry and emotional honesty could resonate with millions around the world.
10. Rare (2020)
Released as the second single from her 2020 album Rare, the title track “Rare” is an empowering anthem about self-worth and embracing individuality. The song’s upbeat tempo and shimmering production create an infectious energy that is both introspective and celebratory. “Rare” is an anthem of self-love, encouraging listeners to recognize their unique value and reject the notion that they should settle for less than they deserve. The lyrics celebrate the beauty of being yourself and embracing your own strength, a message that resonated deeply with fans, especially during a time when self-empowerment was at the forefront of cultural conversations.
The production of “Rare” is a mix of shimmering synths, upbeat percussion, and Selena’s airy vocals, creating a sparkling and optimistic sound. The song’s uplifting nature is matched by its empowering lyrics, which promote the idea of recognizing one’s own worth and not being afraid to stand out from the crowd. Selena’s performance is confident and radiant, embodying the song’s message of embracing individuality and rejecting external judgment. The track is an anthem for anyone who has ever felt overlooked or undervalued, offering a reminder that everyone has something unique to offer.
“Rare” peaked at No. 30 on the Billboard Hot 100, further solidifying Selena’s presence in the pop music landscape. The song’s success was a testament to her ability to craft an empowering and relatable anthem that could connect with a wide audience. The accompanying music video, which features vibrant and whimsical visuals, perfectly matched the song’s message of joy, confidence, and individuality. “Rare” is a powerful expression of personal growth and self-assurance, marking an important chapter in Selena Gomez’s career as an artist who continues to evolve and inspire through her music.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
