Selena Gomez has cemented her place as one of the most influential and versatile artists in the music industry. From her early days as a Disney star to becoming a global pop sensation, Selena has consistently delivered chart-topping hits that resonate with fans across the world. With her soulful voice, empowering lyrics, and ability to effortlessly blend genres, she has created an unforgettable musical legacy that continues to grow.
In this article, we’ll take a journey through Selena Gomez’s most iconic and beloved songs—the tracks that defined her career and captured the hearts of millions. Whether it’s a heart-wrenching ballad about love and loss or an upbeat anthem that makes you want to dance, Selena’s music has a way of speaking directly to her listeners. Her songs are not just melodies; they’re stories, emotions, and moments that fans hold dear.
From the infectious beats of her early hits to the deeply personal lyrics of her more recent work, this list celebrates the top 10 most popular Selena Gomez songs of all time. So, get ready to rediscover the tracks that made you fall in love with Selena’s artistry and sing along to the hits that have become timeless classics!
1. “Come & Get It” (2013)
Released in 2013, “Come & Get It” marked a defining moment in Selena Gomez’s career, signaling her transition from Disney star to a confident, mature pop artist. The track, infused with Bollywood-inspired beats and lush electronic production, showcased a new side of her musical persona. With its hypnotic rhythm and seductive melody, the song captivated audiences and quickly became one of Selena’s most recognizable hits.
Lyrically, “Come & Get It” plays with themes of patience, desire, and empowerment. While the chorus may suggest waiting for love, Selena’s sultry and assured vocal delivery gives it a sense of control and strength rather than passivity. The song’s production, layered with pulsating drums and soaring vocal harmonies, adds a cinematic flair that makes it stand out in her discography.
The accompanying music video further emphasized Selena’s evolution as an artist. Featuring breathtaking landscapes, mesmerizing choreography, and a sense of mystique, the visuals reinforced the song’s exotic and alluring feel. Her performances, particularly at the MTV Movie Awards, highlighted her growth as a performer, incorporating intricate dance routines that made a lasting impression.
Commercially, “Come & Get It” became one of Selena’s most successful singles, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning multi-platinum certifications. It marked a turning point in her career, proving that she could command the pop stage with a bold and sophisticated sound. Even years later, it remains a standout track that represents her fearless artistic evolution.
2. “Love You Like a Love Song” (2011)
A timeless pop gem, “Love You Like a Love Song” became an instant fan favorite upon its release in 2011. As one of Selena Gomez & The Scene’s most iconic tracks, it perfectly captures the euphoric yet slightly surreal feeling of being in love. With its dreamy synth-pop production and poetic, almost hypnotic lyrics, the song stands out as one of her most creatively infectious hits.
The song’s strength lies in its simplicity—its repetition of “I keep hitting repeat” mimics the addictive nature of love, mirroring the way a favorite song plays endlessly in your mind. Selena’s cool, confident vocal delivery adds a touch of playfulness, making it a track that feels lighthearted yet deeply romantic. The electro-pop instrumental, with pulsating synths and a steady dance beat, gives it an 80s-inspired nostalgia while still feeling modern.
The music video, known for its surreal and colorful visuals, further cemented the song’s appeal. From vintage aesthetics to futuristic neon settings, the video presents a dreamlike interpretation of love as something magical, larger than life, and even a little theatrical.
Commercially, “Love You Like a Love Song” was a massive success, peaking high on the charts and earning multi-platinum status. Even years after its release, it continues to be one of Selena’s most enduring hits, frequently covered and referenced as a staple of early 2010s pop music.
3. “Lose You to Love Me” (2019)
Released in 2019, “Lose You to Love Me” is one of Selena Gomez’s most deeply personal and emotionally raw songs. A stark departure from her upbeat pop anthems, this stripped-down ballad lays bare the pain of heartbreak, self-discovery, and eventual healing. With minimalistic piano accompaniment and hauntingly intimate lyrics, the song offers an unfiltered look into Selena’s journey of letting go of a toxic relationship and reclaiming her self-worth.
The song’s lyrics read like a journal entry, capturing the agony of betrayal and the slow realization that true love should never come at the expense of self-respect. Lines like “I needed to lose you to find me” and “This dancing was killing me softly” resonate with anyone who has experienced the difficult process of moving on from a deep emotional attachment. Selena’s vocals are raw and heartfelt, conveying both pain and newfound strength.
The black-and-white music video, shot in a single take, adds to the song’s emotional weight. Its simplicity and focus on Selena’s expressions make it feel even more personal, as though she’s sharing an intimate moment with the listener. This visual approach enhances the vulnerability of the song, making it one of her most compelling performances.
Critically and commercially, “Lose You to Love Me” was a huge success, becoming Selena’s first song to top the Billboard Hot 100. Fans and critics alike praised its authenticity and emotional depth, solidifying it as one of the standout songs in her career. It remains a testament to her growth as an artist and a person, proving that sometimes, losing someone else is the only way to truly find yourself.
4. “Bad Liar” (2017)
“Bad Liar”, released in 2017, is one of Selena Gomez’s most unique and daring songs to date. Unlike her previous radio-friendly hits, this track takes a more experimental approach, blending minimalist production with a quirky storytelling style. Built around the bassline of Talking Heads’ 1977 classic “Psycho Killer”, the song stands out for its understated yet infectious groove.
The lyrics explore the tension of trying—and failing—to hide feelings of infatuation. Selena’s breathy, almost whispered vocals add to the song’s intimate and playful tone, making it feel like a secret confession rather than a typical pop anthem. Lines like “I see your face in my mind as I drive away” capture the struggle of pretending not to be affected by someone’s presence. The song’s stripped-back instrumentation allows the storytelling to shine, making every word feel deliberate and emotionally charged.
The music video adds another layer of depth, with Selena playing multiple characters in a 1970s high school setting, further emphasizing the theme of suppressed emotions and unspoken desires. The artistic direction, combined with the song’s unconventional sound, made “Bad Liar” a standout in Selena’s discography.
Despite its experimental nature, the song was well-received by both critics and fans. Publications like Rolling Stone even named it one of the best songs of 2017, praising its originality and Selena’s ability to push the boundaries of pop music. “Bad Liar” remains a bold and creative moment in her career, proving that sometimes, less is more when it comes to making an unforgettable song.
5. “It Ain’t Me” (2017)
In 2017, Selena Gomez teamed up with Norwegian DJ and producer Kygo for “It Ain’t Me”, a tropical house-infused breakup anthem that became an instant hit. The song tells the story of a failed relationship, focusing on a partner’s self-destructive behavior and the painful realization that love alone isn’t enough to save someone. With its blend of melancholy lyrics and an uplifting beat, the track masterfully balances heartache with resilience.
Selena’s soft yet emotional delivery adds depth to lines like “I had a dream / We were sipping whiskey neat”, painting a vivid picture of lost love and unfulfilled promises. The chorus, where she repeatedly asks, “Who’s gonna walk you through the dark side of the morning?”, captures the haunting feeling of leaving someone behind even when it hurts. The contrast between the song’s wistful verses and its explosive, beat-driven drop makes for an unforgettable listening experience.
The song’s production, led by Kygo’s signature tropical sound, features atmospheric synths, a pulsing beat, and a manipulated vocal chop that gives the chorus its distinctive energy. This fusion of electronic and acoustic elements helped “It Ain’t Me” stand out in both the pop and EDM worlds.
Commercially, the song was a massive success, reaching the top 10 in multiple countries and being certified multi-platinum. It showcased Selena’s evolving artistry and ability to take on diverse musical styles while maintaining her emotional authenticity. To this day, “It Ain’t Me” remains one of her most powerful breakup anthems, resonating with anyone who has had to walk away from a love that was dragging them down.
6. “The Heart Wants What It Wants” (2014)
Few songs in Selena Gomez’s catalog are as raw and emotionally charged as “The Heart Wants What It Wants”, released in 2014. This deeply personal ballad explores the turmoil of being in love with someone who continually causes pain, yet feeling powerless to walk away. With its haunting melody, introspective lyrics, and Selena’s heart-wrenching vocal delivery, the song is a deeply relatable anthem of love, heartbreak, and emotional struggle.
The song opens with an audio clip of Selena speaking vulnerably about the emotional toll of a toxic relationship, immediately setting the tone for an intimate and confessional experience. The lyrics—“There’s a million reasons why I should give you up / But the heart wants what it wants”—perfectly capture the internal battle between logic and emotion that so many people face in unhealthy relationships.
Musically, the song’s minimalist production allows Selena’s vocals to take center stage, creating an atmosphere of quiet sadness and reflection. The stripped-down arrangement, featuring subtle beats and an airy instrumental backdrop, enhances the song’s emotional weight without overpowering its message.
The black-and-white music video further amplifies the song’s raw emotion, showing Selena in a state of vulnerability as she struggles with her feelings. The intimate visuals, combined with her tearful performance, made for a powerful artistic statement that resonated with fans and critics alike.
Upon its release, “The Heart Wants What It Wants” was praised for its honesty and emotional depth, marking a turning point in Selena’s career. It showcased her ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level, proving that she could deliver more than just radio-friendly pop hits—she could tell real, heartfelt stories through her music.
7. “Hands to Myself” (2015)
Released in 2015 as part of her Revival album, “Hands to Myself” is one of Selena Gomez’s most sultry and playful tracks. With its minimalistic production, breathy vocals, and infectious melody, the song exudes confidence and sensuality, marking a more mature turn in her music.
The song’s lyrics explore the irresistible pull of attraction and obsession, with Selena teasingly admitting, “I mean, I could, but why would I want to?” as she sings about giving in to temptation. The hypnotic rhythm and soft, pulsating beat create an intimate atmosphere, making the song feel both flirtatious and alluring. Unlike traditional high-energy pop anthems, “Hands to Myself” thrives on restraint, proving that sometimes, less is more.
Produced by Mattman & Robin and co-written with Julia Michaels and Justin Tranter, the track’s stripped-down instrumentation—featuring a bouncy bassline and subtle guitar strums—enhances its seductive nature. The whispered delivery of the chorus adds to its dreamy, intoxicating effect, making it a standout in Selena’s discography.
The song’s music video adds to its intrigue, featuring Selena as a glamorous fugitive who breaks into a Hollywood star’s home, blurring the lines between fantasy and reality. The cinematic visuals, combined with her bold performance, helped solidify “Hands to Myself” as a defining moment in her artistic evolution.
Upon release, the song was praised for its innovative production and refreshing simplicity. It became a commercial success, peaking in the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Hands to Myself” not only showcased Selena’s growth as an artist but also proved that she could command attention with subtlety and sophistication, making it one of her most memorable hits.
8. “Wolves” (2017)
In 2017, Selena Gomez teamed up with EDM producer Marshmello for “Wolves”, a hauntingly beautiful track that blends electronic beats with raw, emotional storytelling. Unlike traditional club bangers, this song carries a deeper, melancholic undertone, making it stand out in the EDM-pop crossover genre.
Lyrically, “Wolves” explores themes of longing, struggle, and perseverance in the face of heartache. Selena’s voice soars over the moody production as she sings, “I’ve been running through the jungle / I’ve been running with the wolves / To get to you”, using vivid imagery to describe a relentless pursuit of love. The lyrics suggest an emotional and physical journey, making the song feel deeply personal and introspective.
Musically, “Wolves” strikes a perfect balance between Marshmello’s signature electronic sound and Selena’s soft yet emotive vocals. The production builds gradually, starting with a delicate, almost acoustic opening before escalating into a pulsating beat that gives the song its anthemic energy. This gradual buildup mirrors the emotional intensity of the lyrics, making each drop feel like a cathartic release.
The song’s music video, which features Selena wandering through an abandoned pool in a silk robe, adds to its dreamy, mysterious aesthetic. Her ethereal presence and vulnerable expressions complement the song’s haunting vibe, further enhancing its emotional weight.
Upon release, “Wolves” received widespread acclaim for its unique fusion of pop and EDM, with critics praising Selena’s vocal performance and the song’s atmospheric production. It became a commercial success, topping dance charts and earning multi-platinum certifications worldwide. With its evocative lyrics and mesmerizing sound, “Wolves” remains one of Selena’s most compelling and emotionally resonant songs.
9. “Who Says” (2011)
Released in 2011, “Who Says” is one of Selena Gomez’s most uplifting and empowering songs, serving as an anthem of self-love and confidence. At a time when she was still establishing herself as a solo artist, this track stood out as a heartfelt message to her fans, reminding them of their worth and inner beauty.
Lyrically, “Who Says” directly addresses self-doubt and criticism, countering negativity with lines like, “Who says you’re not perfect? Who says you’re not worth it?” The song’s message is clear—no one should let the opinions of others define their self-esteem. In an era when social media was beginning to amplify both positivity and criticism, the song’s lyrics felt especially relevant, resonating with listeners who struggled with self-acceptance.
Musically, the track embraces an acoustic-pop sound, departing from the dance-heavy production of many of her earlier songs. The light and breezy guitar melody, combined with Selena’s warm vocal delivery, creates an intimate and heartfelt atmosphere. Unlike high-energy pop anthems, “Who Says” thrives on its simplicity, allowing the sincerity of the lyrics to take center stage.
The music video enhances the song’s message, featuring Selena in natural settings, without flashy costumes or elaborate choreography. The stripped-down visuals emphasize authenticity, reinforcing the idea that beauty comes from within.
Upon its release, “Who Says” received praise for its positive message and catchy melody. It became an anthem for self-confidence, particularly among young fans, and remains one of Selena’s most cherished songs. With its timeless encouragement to embrace self-worth, “Who Says” continues to inspire listeners of all ages.
10. “Rare” (2020)
Released as the title track of her 2020 album, “Rare” is a deeply personal and reflective song that captures Selena Gomez’s journey toward self-acceptance and empowerment. The song marked a new chapter in her music, highlighting her growth both as an artist and as an individual.
Lyrically, “Rare” is a declaration of self-worth, as Selena sings about realizing her own value in a relationship where she felt unappreciated. Lines like, “It feels like you don’t care / Why don’t you recognize I’m so rare?” convey a sense of emotional maturity, shifting the focus from seeking validation to embracing one’s uniqueness. The song encourages listeners to recognize their own worth and not settle for less than they deserve.
Musically, “Rare” blends dreamy, mid-tempo pop production with a light and airy beat. The song’s shimmering synths and gentle rhythms create a laid-back yet infectious groove, perfectly complementing Selena’s breathy, intimate vocal delivery. Unlike some of her previous dance-pop hits, “Rare” opts for a more subtle approach, allowing the emotion behind the lyrics to shine through.
The accompanying music video further enhances the song’s message, featuring Selena in a vibrant, ethereal forest filled with colorful lights and surreal imagery. The visuals emphasize beauty and individuality, reinforcing the theme of embracing one’s uniqueness.
Upon its release, “Rare” was widely praised for its authenticity and emotional depth. It became an anthem for self-love, resonating with fans who saw their own experiences reflected in the lyrics. With its empowering message and dreamy production, “Rare” stands as a testament to Selena Gomez’s artistic and personal evolution, proving that she continues to create music that inspires and uplifts.
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.
