Selena Gomez is not just a global pop sensation—she’s a powerhouse of talent, emotion, and resilience. Over the years, she has enchanted millions with her soulful voice, empowering lyrics, and irresistible beats, cementing her place as one of the most influential artists of this generation. From heartfelt ballads to dance-floor anthems, Selena’s music has evolved alongside her journey, offering fans a soundtrack to love, heartbreak, self-discovery, and triumph.
In this article, we’re taking a stroll down memory lane to celebrate the top 10 most popular Selena Gomez songs of all time. Whether you’ve been a Selenator since her days on Wizards of Waverly Place or you’re a recent fan captivated by her chart-topping hits, this list will remind you why Selena remains a pop icon. These tracks have dominated airwaves, broken records, and earned her a dedicated place in the hearts of millions worldwide.
Get ready to relive the magic, sing along to her biggest hits, and discover the stories behind the songs that made Selena Gomez a household name. From heartfelt lyrics to electrifying beats, these tracks are proof of her enduring legacy in the music industry. Let’s dive in!
1. “Come & Get It” (2013)
Released in 2013, “Come & Get It” marked a significant turning point in Selena Gomez’s musical journey. This sultry, Bollywood-inspired track showcased a more mature and confident Selena, leaving behind the teen pop sound of her earlier work and embracing a more sophisticated, edgy vibe. From the moment the song begins, with its infectious beat and seductive rhythm, it’s clear that Selena had evolved as an artist. The song’s unique blend of exotic, Eastern-inspired melodies and modern pop elements helped it stand out, instantly captivating listeners with its bold sound. Lyrically, “Come & Get It” is a confident invitation, with Selena singing about love and desire in a way that felt fresh and empowering. Her vocals, smooth yet full of intent, add an element of mystery, creating a sense of anticipation throughout the track. The catchy chorus made it an instant hit, helping the song soar to the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. The lush production, with its driving beat and intricate instrumentation, made “Come & Get It” a perfect anthem for both radio and the dancefloor. Its accompanying music video, filled with vibrant colors and sensual choreography, further highlighted Selena’s newfound confidence and allure. This song proved not only to be a commercial success but also a turning point in Selena’s career, as it solidified her transition into a more mature sound. “Come & Get It” became a fan favorite and a staple in her live performances, forever marking an important chapter in her musical evolution.
2. “Love You Like a Love Song” (2011)
From Selena Gomez & The Scene’s 2011 album When the Sun Goes Down, “Love You Like a Love Song” quickly became one of her most iconic hits. The track is an electro-pop anthem that fuses dreamy synths with a catchy, upbeat melody, creating the perfect backdrop for Selena’s vocals. Lyrically, the song’s message is simple yet powerful—describing an all-encompassing love that feels as timeless and repetitive as a love song itself. With its infectious chorus, “Love You Like a Love Song” immediately captures attention, drawing listeners in with its light, playful tone. The song’s production is sleek and polished, blending electronic elements with a pop sensibility that appealed to a wide range of audiences. Selena’s performance is full of sincerity, as she sings about a love so powerful that it feels like it could be the soundtrack to one’s life. The song’s poetic lyrics, such as “I love you like a love song, baby,” paint a vivid picture of a love that transcends time. Its accompanying music video, with its bold, colorful visuals and surreal imagery, further enhanced the track’s dreamlike qualities. The video, set in a whimsical world, showcased Selena’s growing presence as a pop star, mixing innocence with allure. “Love You Like a Love Song” quickly became a fan favorite, dominating radio waves and topping charts. It also solidified Selena’s place in the pop world, making her one of the defining voices of the early 2010s. The track’s timeless appeal continues to make it a staple in her discography, reminding listeners of the magic and simplicity of first love.
3. “Bad Liar” (2017)
When Selena Gomez released “Bad Liar” in 2017, she surprised fans with a bold and experimental sound that marked a significant departure from her previous pop tracks. This minimalist track, which samples the bassline from Talking Heads’ “Psycho Killer,” immediately stands out with its distinct, almost haunting production. “Bad Liar” is a reflection of Selena’s artistic growth, showcasing her ability to experiment with unconventional sounds while maintaining the emotional depth that her fans have come to expect. The song’s lyrics delve into the complexities of a relationship, describing the inner turmoil of trying to hide emotions and the frustration of being unable to conceal the truth. Selena’s vocals are sultry and understated, conveying vulnerability and a sense of emotional conflict. The production is sparse, with subtle instrumental layers that allow the bassline to take center stage, creating an intimate atmosphere that draws listeners in. The song’s chorus is catchy yet unconventional, and its repetitive, hypnotic melody makes it instantly memorable. In contrast to the more commercial tracks that dominated radio at the time, “Bad Liar” is a daring, art-pop experiment that caught the attention of critics and fans alike. The song was widely praised for its innovative approach to pop music, with many highlighting Selena’s ability to reinvent her sound and push boundaries. Its accompanying music video, full of quirky visuals and clever storytelling, further cemented “Bad Liar” as one of Selena’s most unique and creatively fulfilling tracks. This song proved that Selena was not just a pop star—she was an artist, willing to take risks and evolve in new directions.
4. “The Heart Wants What It Wants” (2014)
Released in 2014, “The Heart Wants What It Wants” gave Selena Gomez fans a raw, vulnerable look into her personal struggles. The song is a powerful ballad that captures the emotional conflict of being torn between love and logic. With hauntingly beautiful melodies and deeply personal lyrics, “The Heart Wants What It Wants” is one of Selena’s most emotionally charged tracks. The song speaks to the complexity of relationships, particularly when one is caught in the grip of intense emotions despite knowing the relationship might not be healthy. Selena’s vocal performance is heartfelt and delicate, perfectly conveying the inner turmoil of the song’s protagonist. The lyrics, like “The heart wants what it wants, the heart wants what it wants,” reflect the struggle between desire and reason, offering listeners an honest, relatable narrative about love’s power. The production is stripped-down, allowing Selena’s voice to take center stage, which gives the track an intimate, confessional feel. The music video complements the song’s emotional depth, featuring raw, tear-filled moments that capture Selena’s vulnerability. Throughout the video, viewers witness a sense of anguish and longing, reinforcing the song’s emotional weight. “The Heart Wants What It Wants” was not only a commercial success but also a critical one, with many praising Selena’s courage in sharing such a personal and painful part of her life. The track solidified her as an artist who was unafraid to be vulnerable and real with her audience, and it remains one of her most powerful and memorable songs to date.
5. “Wolves” (2017)
In 2017, Selena Gomez teamed up with electronic producer Marshmello to release “Wolves,” a track that blends her delicate vocals with a pulsating electronic beat. The song is a fusion of pop and EDM, creating a unique sound that felt both fresh and captivating. “Wolves” is an emotional journey, with Selena singing about the longing, vulnerability, and determination that come with love and heartache. The lyrics convey a sense of inner strength, with Selena reflecting on the darkness of her past but also expressing a fierce desire to fight for something better. Her voice, soft yet full of emotion, perfectly matches the song’s theme of overcoming obstacles. The production, driven by Marshmello’s signature electronic sound, creates a hypnotic atmosphere that pulls listeners in, while the subtle beat drops heighten the song’s intensity. “Wolves” is both atmospheric and anthemic, combining moody, introspective lyrics with uplifting energy. The song’s themes of determination and resilience resonated deeply with fans, making it an instant favorite. It became a chart-topping success, further solidifying Selena’s place in the music world as an artist who could seamlessly blend genres and create songs that felt both personal and universally relatable. The track’s success also marked a turning point in Selena’s musical career, as it demonstrated her ability to collaborate with electronic producers and tap into the growing EDM trend. “Wolves” is a powerful track that perfectly captures the tension between longing and strength, making it one of Selena’s most memorable songs.
6. “Lose You to Love Me” (2019)
“Lose You to Love Me” marked a pivotal moment in Selena Gomez’s career. Released in 2019, this deeply personal ballad explores themes of heartbreak, self-reflection, and emotional healing. The song is a stripped-down, piano-driven track that showcases Selena’s vocal vulnerability and emotional depth. The lyrics speak to the painful process of letting go of someone in order to find self-love and growth. With lines like “I needed to lose you to love me,” Selena expresses the difficulty of finding strength after heartbreak, while simultaneously embracing the transformative power of that experience. The production is minimalist, allowing Selena’s raw vocals to shine through. There are no distractions, just the piano and her voice, which gives the song an intimate, confessional feel. “Lose You to Love Me” was Selena’s first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, and its emotional honesty struck a chord with fans all over the world. Many listeners praised the song for its authenticity and for showcasing a side of Selena that was both vulnerable and strong. The song was an instant success, climbing the charts and becoming one of Selena’s most iconic tracks. The accompanying music video, featuring stark black-and-white visuals and close-up shots of Selena, further emphasized the song’s emotional rawness. “Lose You to Love Me” is not just a breakup song; it’s a testament to personal growth and healing. It marked a new chapter in Selena’s career, one that allowed her to connect with her fans on an even deeper level, proving that music can be both a source of comfort and a powerful tool for self-expression.
7. “Same Old Love” (2015)
Released in 2015 as part of her album Revival, “Same Old Love” is a song about breaking free from the toxic patterns of relationships that hold us back. With its jazzy piano riff and understated production, the track offers a more mature sound for Selena, marking a new phase in her musical journey. The song’s lyrics reflect the frustration of being stuck in a cycle of unhealthy relationships and the desire to break free and move on. Selena’s performance is full of emotion, and her smooth vocals convey the bittersweet feeling of letting go of something familiar but ultimately unfulfilling. “Same Old Love” is a departure from some of Selena’s earlier pop tracks, showcasing her evolution as an artist who is unafraid to tackle complex emotional themes. The song’s chorus, with its infectious hook, speaks to the feeling of being trapped in a relationship that doesn’t offer the happiness or growth that one needs. The production is sleek and sophisticated, with subtle electronic elements that complement the song’s moody atmosphere. Co-written by Charli XCX, “Same Old Love” became an instant chart success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song also showcased Selena’s ability to experiment with different sounds, blending pop, R&B, and electronic elements into a cohesive, standout track. Its introspective lyrics and mature sound made it a fan favorite, and it became an anthem for anyone who has ever had to move on from a relationship that no longer served them.
8. “It Ain’t Me” (2017)
“It Ain’t Me” marked a collaboration between Selena Gomez and Norwegian DJ/producer Kygo in 2017, and it quickly became a global hit. The track combines Selena’s sultry, emotive vocals with Kygo’s tropical house production, creating a vibrant and captivating anthem. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a relationship plagued by addiction, where the protagonist is trying to let go but still haunted by the past. Selena’s voice adds a layer of emotional depth to the song, perfectly conveying the internal conflict of wanting to help someone but realizing that it’s time to walk away for the sake of her own well-being. The gentle, upbeat production contrasts with the darker themes of the song, creating a sense of bittersweet hope as the protagonist finds strength to move on. The fusion of tropical house elements with Selena’s vocal performance made “It Ain’t Me” an instant standout. The catchy chorus and infectious melody ensured its success across international charts, and its success in both the pop and EDM genres showcased Selena’s ability to crossover into different musical territories. The song also reflects a sense of personal growth, as Selena sings about realizing that she is no longer the person to help someone in a toxic relationship, yet she is reclaiming her own power. The upbeat energy paired with deeply personal lyrics made “It Ain’t Me” a fan favorite and an anthem for those who have found the courage to move forward from a challenging relationship. Its success cemented Selena’s place as a versatile pop artist, able to effortlessly blend different musical genres into her signature sound. With “It Ain’t Me”, Selena continued to evolve as an artist, delivering a track that was both emotionally resonant and dancefloor-ready.
9. “Hands to Myself” (2015)
“Hands to Myself” from Selena Gomez’s 2015 album Revival is a sultry, infectious track that exemplifies her growth as an artist. The song features a minimalist production that allows Selena’s playful, yet confident, vocals to take center stage. With its smooth, bass-heavy beat and catchy, hook-driven chorus, “Hands to Myself” immediately grabs attention. The lyrics, which describe the thrill of desire and the temptation to be close to someone, are flirtatious and bold, yet they carry an underlying sense of vulnerability. It’s clear that Selena is exploring a more confident and daring side of herself in this track, embracing her sensuality without reservation. The song’s production, which is both sleek and smooth, complements Selena’s vocal performance, allowing her to experiment with different textures and tones. “Hands to Myself” was a departure from the more sentimental ballads she had previously released, embracing a more upbeat, empowering message of self-confidence and ownership. The infectious chorus, with lines like “I can’t keep my hands to myself,” is a declaration of attraction and desire, while the verses explore the push and pull of romantic tension. The accompanying music video, which features Selena in various glamorous settings, further enhances the song’s confident, carefree attitude. The video perfectly captures the energy of the track, with Selena moving through scenes with a sense of controlled flirtation. “Hands to Myself” quickly became a fan favorite and a staple on pop playlists, with its catchy beat and playful lyrics making it a standout on Revival. The song proved that Selena was not just a pop princess but an artist capable of experimenting with new sounds and embracing her evolving musical identity.
10. “Who Says” (2011)
“Who Says” is one of Selena Gomez’s most empowering and uplifting tracks, released in 2011 as part of Selena Gomez & The Scene’s album When the Sun Goes Down. The song is an anthem of self-empowerment, promoting self-love, confidence, and embracing one’s uniqueness. With its acoustic-driven melody and infectious chorus, “Who Says” delivers a powerful message about rejecting negative judgment and celebrating individuality. The lyrics challenge anyone who tries to bring others down, asking the rhetorical question, “Who says you’re not perfect?” The song encourages listeners to embrace their flaws, recognize their worth, and stay true to who they are. Selena’s performance on the track is light-hearted and full of energy, with her sweet vocals delivering the song’s message of positivity and self-acceptance. “Who Says” was widely embraced by fans for its uplifting and relatable message, and it quickly became a rallying cry for those seeking encouragement. The track’s acoustic instrumentation and feel-good vibe made it an anthem for self-love, and its message resonated with audiences around the world. The music video, with its bright and colorful visuals, further enhanced the song’s themes of confidence and individuality, featuring Selena in various joyful and carefree moments. “Who Says” became one of Selena’s most beloved songs, and its impact continues to be felt, as it remains a timeless anthem for anyone seeking to embrace their true selves. The song stands as a reminder that we are all worthy of love and acceptance, no matter what others may say. In a world that often pressures people to conform, “Who Says” is a powerful declaration of freedom and self-expression.
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.
