Selena Gomez, born on July 22, 1992, is an American singer, actress, and producer who rose to fame as a Disney Channel star. Hailing from Grand Prairie, Texas, Gomez began her career in the entertainment industry at a young age and quickly became a household name. She initially gained widespread recognition for her role as Alex Russo in the Disney Channel series “Wizards of Waverly Place.”
Beyond acting, Selena Gomez has made a significant mark in the music industry. Her versatile talent is showcased in her pop and electro-pop-infused music, featuring hits like “Come & Get It,” “Good for You,” and “Bad Liar.” Gomez’s sultry vocals and relatable lyrics have earned her acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
In addition to her entertainment career, Selena Gomez is recognized for her philanthropic endeavors. She is an advocate for mental health awareness and has been open about her own struggles, contributing to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
Selena Gomez’s evolution from a Disney star to a multifaceted artist and advocate reflects her resilience and authenticity. Her impact extends beyond entertainment, making her a cultural icon known for her talent, grace, and commitment to positive change.
1. “Perfect”
Selena Gomez has become known for her heartfelt and relatable music, and one such song that stands out is “Perfect.” Released in 2015 as part of her album “Revival,” this song resonates with listeners on a deep level. The lyrics of “Perfect” delve into themes of self-acceptance, empowerment, and embracing one’s flaws and imperfections. Let’s explore the meaning behind this captivating song that has struck a chord with many.
2. “Back to You”
“Back to You” is a song by Selena Gomez released in 2018. It was featured on the soundtrack for the second season of the Netflix series “13 Reasons Why,” of which Gomez is an executive producer. The song was also included in the deluxe edition of Selena Gomez’s third studio album, “Rare,” released in 2020.
Co-written by Gomez with Amy Allen, Micah Premnath, Diederik Van Elsas, Parrish Warrington, and its producers Louis Bell and Frank Dukes, “Back to You” is a pop track that explores themes of love, longing, and the complexities of relationships.
The song received positive reviews for its catchy melody, emotive lyrics, and Gomez’s vocal delivery. The music video for “Back to You” features scenes from the second season of “13 Reasons Why” and complements the song’s themes.
“Back to You” became a commercial success, charting in multiple countries and gaining popularity among Selena Gomez’s fan base. The song’s inclusion in both the TV series and the deluxe edition of “Rare” added to its visibility and impact within Gomez’s discography.
3. “Slow Down”
“Slow Down” is a song by Selena Gomez, released in 2013 as the second single from her debut solo studio album, “Stars Dance.” The song, written by Lindy Robbins, Julia Michaels, and others, is an electro-pop and dance-pop track that showcases Gomez’s move toward a more mature and electronic sound.
The lyrics of “Slow Down” revolve around the theme of letting go of stress and enjoying the moment on the dance floor. The song encourages listeners to slow down and savor the present, capturing the carefree and exhilarating atmosphere of a night out.
Musically, “Slow Down” features pulsating beats, synthesizers, and a catchy chorus. The production incorporates elements of electronic dance music (EDM), contributing to the song’s energetic and infectious vibe. Selena Gomez’s sultry vocals add a layer of sophistication to the track.
The accompanying music video for “Slow Down” complements the song’s party atmosphere, featuring Gomez cruising through the streets of Paris and enjoying a night out with friends. The video’s stylish visuals and vibrant scenes align with the song’s lively and carefree spirit.
“Slow Down” received positive reviews from music critics and achieved commercial success, charting in various countries. The song’s danceable quality and catchy hooks made it a fan favorite and a notable entry in Selena Gomez’s discography.
4. “Fetish”
“Fetish” is a song by Selena Gomez featuring Gucci Mane, released in 2017. It is part of Selena Gomez’s fifth studio album, “Rare.” The track explores themes of desire, sensuality, and the intoxicating nature of an intense romantic attraction.
The lyrics of “Fetish” are characterized by their suggestive and intimate nature, describing the allure of a partner and the powerful effect they have on the singer. The word “fetish” is used metaphorically to convey the intense and all-encompassing nature of the singer’s feelings.
The music video for “Fetish” features Selena Gomez in various surreal and dreamlike settings, adding to the mysterious and seductive atmosphere of the song. The video’s artistic and visually striking elements complement the song’s theme.
“Fetish” received positive reviews for its mature and sultry sound, showcasing a departure from Selena Gomez’s earlier musical style. The collaboration with rapper Gucci Mane added a hip-hop element to the track.
While “Fetish” may not have achieved the same commercial success as some of Selena Gomez’s other hits, it demonstrated her willingness to explore different musical styles and themes in her evolving career.
5. “Good for You”
“Good for You” is a song by Selena Gomez featuring rapper A$AP Rocky, released in 2015 as the lead single from her second studio album, “Revival.” The track marked a significant departure from Gomez’s earlier sound, embracing a more mature and sultry vibe.
The lyrics of “Good for You” express confidence and sensuality, with Gomez singing about wanting to look and feel good for her partner. The song’s production features a minimalistic and atmospheric sound, allowing Selena Gomez’s vocals to take center stage. A$AP Rocky’s rap verse adds an extra layer to the track.
The music video for “Good for You” showcases Selena Gomez in various intimate and elegant settings, emphasizing the visual and thematic shift in her image. The overall aesthetic of the video complements the song’s theme of self-assured sensuality.
“Good for You” received positive reviews for its mature sound and Gomez’s vocal performance. The song became a commercial success, reaching high positions on music charts worldwide. Its success marked a turning point in Selena Gomez’s career as she continued to explore a more grown-up and sophisticated musical identity.
6. “The Heart Wants What it Wants”
“The Heart Wants What It Wants” is a poignant ballad by Selena Gomez, released in 2014. The song is a single from her compilation album “For You” and served as a preview for her second studio album, “Revival,” released in 2015.
Co-written by Gomez with Antonina Armato, Tim James, David Jost, and Benjamin Levin, the song delves into themes of heartbreak and the emotional struggles of navigating a complicated relationship. The lyrics candidly express the pain and vulnerability associated with love, and Gomez’s heartfelt delivery adds authenticity to the emotional narrative.
Musically, “The Heart Wants What It Wants” is characterized by a minimalistic arrangement, allowing Gomez’s vocals to take center stage. The song features a haunting melody, subtle piano chords, and a gradual build-up of intensity, creating a somber and atmospheric tone.
The accompanying music video for the song, directed by Dawn Shadforth, further emphasizes the emotional weight of the lyrics. Gomez delivers a raw and captivating performance, capturing the essence of the song’s personal and introspective nature.
“The Heart Wants What It Wants” received critical acclaim for its emotional depth and marked a significant moment in Selena Gomez’s career, showcasing her artistic maturity. The song resonated with audiences and became a commercial success, earning Gomez praise for her vulnerability and openness in addressing personal struggles through her music.
7. “Hands To Myself”
“Hands to Myself” is a song by Selena Gomez, released in 2015 as a single from her second studio album, “Revival.” The track is a sultry and catchy pop song with R&B influences, showcasing a more mature and confident side of Gomez.
The lyrics of “Hands to Myself” explore themes of desire and the anticipation of physical intimacy. The song tells the story of someone who can’t resist the temptation to be close to a romantic interest. Selena Gomez’s breathy vocals and the song’s infectious chorus contribute to its overall seductive vibe.
The music video for “Hands to Myself” further emphasizes the song’s theme, featuring Selena Gomez in various provocative and glamorous scenes. The video received praise for its stylish and cinematic presentation.
“Hands to Myself” became a commercial success, charting in multiple countries and earning positive reviews from music critics. The song’s success, along with other tracks from the “Revival” album, signaled Selena Gomez’s transition into a more mature and confident phase of her career, both musically and personally.
8. “Bad Liar”
“Bad Liar” is a song by Selena Gomez, released in 2017 as the lead single from her third studio album, “Rare.” The song, co-written by Gomez, Julia Michaels, Justin Tranter, and other collaborators, features a unique and infectious blend of pop, rock, and new wave influences.
The lyrics of “Bad Liar” convey a sense of infatuation and attraction, capturing the excitement and complexity of developing feelings for someone. The song’s narrative unfolds with clever wordplay and a catchy chorus, showcasing Gomez’s growth as a songwriter.
Musically, “Bad Liar” is notable for its distinctive bassline, which samples the bassline from the Talking Heads’ 1977 song “Psycho Killer.” The use of this sample gives the song a retro and nostalgic feel, adding an unexpected and inventive element to the modern pop sound.
The accompanying music video, directed by Jesse Peretz, features Selena Gomez in multiple roles, including a high school student and her parents. The video’s storyline, along with its ’70s-inspired aesthetic, complements the song’s themes of secrecy and desire.
“Bad Liar” received positive reviews from music critics, praising its originality and Gomez’s vocal delivery. The song’s unique production and catchy melody contributed to its commercial success, and it remains a standout track in Selena Gomez’s discography, showcasing her evolving artistic style.
9. “Come and Get It”
“Come & Get It” is a song by Selena Gomez, released in 2013 as the lead single from her debut solo album, “Stars Dance.” The track marked a departure from Gomez’s earlier sound, incorporating elements of Indian music and showcasing a more mature and seductive style.
The lyrics of “Come & Get It” express empowerment and confidence, with Gomez inviting a romantic interest to pursue her. The song’s upbeat and rhythmic production, infused with tabla beats, creates an infectious and danceable pop sound.
The music video for “Come & Get It” features Selena Gomez in a variety of visually stunning and exotic settings, complementing the song’s multicultural influences. The video received acclaim for its artistic and vibrant presentation.
“Come & Get It” became a commercial success, reaching high positions on music charts worldwide. The song’s success contributed to Selena Gomez’s evolution as a solo artist outside of her work with her band, The Scene. The track remains one of her signature hits, showcasing her growth as an artist exploring diverse musical styles.
10. “Kill Em with Kindness”
“Kill Em with Kindness” is a song by Selena Gomez, released in 2016 as the fourth single from her second studio album, “Revival.” The song is an empowering anthem that encourages responding to negativity with kindness and maintaining grace under pressure.
Co-written by Gomez with Antonina Armato, Tim James, Benjamin Levin, and Dave Audé, “Kill Em with Kindness” combines elements of dance-pop and electropop. The lyrics advise rising above negativity and embracing a positive and compassionate approach, with the recurring refrain “Kill ’em with kindness.”
Musically, the track features a catchy melody, electronic beats, and a polished production that aligns with Gomez’s pop sound. The song’s upbeat and danceable quality adds an infectious energy to its empowering message.
The accompanying music video for “Kill Em with Kindness,” directed by Emil Nava, features elegant and monochromatic visuals that complement the song’s theme of sophistication and resilience. Gomez is depicted in various stylish settings, emphasizing the power of kindness and self-confidence.
“Kill Em with Kindness” received positive reviews for its message and production. The song performed well commercially, charting in various countries, and it reinforced Selena Gomez’s commitment to empowering and uplifting themes in 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.
