Selena Gomez has been a powerhouse in the entertainment industry for over a decade, captivating fans with her soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and magnetic stage presence. From her early days on Disney Channel to becoming a global pop sensation, Selena has consistently delivered chart-topping hits that resonate with millions around the world. Her music is a blend of vulnerability and empowerment, offering fans anthems for every mood—whether it’s heartbreak, self-discovery, or celebrating life’s beautiful moments.
Over the years, Selena has evolved as an artist, experimenting with different genres and pushing creative boundaries. From her electro-pop bangers to emotional ballads, each track tells a story that leaves fans yearning for more. As a Grammy-nominated artist with billions of streams under her belt, Selena Gomez has solidified her place as one of the most influential pop stars of our time.
In this article, we’re diving into Selena’s musical legacy by counting down her top 10 most popular songs of all time. Get ready to relive the magic and rediscover the tracks that defined her career, broke records, and captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Whether you’re a lifelong Selenator or a casual listener, this list will have you singing along in no time!
1. Come & Get It (2013)
Selena Gomez’s “Come & Get It” was a bold step forward in her career, marking her move from the teen pop sound she was known for to a more mature, sophisticated style. Released in 2013 as the lead single from her debut solo album Stars Dance, this track combines electro-pop with Bollywood-inspired rhythms to create something truly unique. The song’s sultry vibe and hypnotic beat make it incredibly catchy, while Selena’s confident and sultry vocals invite listeners into a world of passion and self-assuredness. The production is lush and detailed, featuring tabla drums and orchestral touches that add an exotic flavor, setting it apart from typical pop fare at the time. “Come & Get It” became a breakthrough hit, climbing the charts internationally and solidifying Selena’s place as a serious artist beyond her Disney roots. The track’s success also opened doors for her to explore more daring and experimental sounds later on. Even years after its release, “Come & Get It” remains a fan favorite and a defining moment in her musical evolution—a perfect blend of empowerment, allure, and catchy pop sensibility.
2. Love You Like a Love Song (2011)
“Love You Like a Love Song,” released in 2011 by Selena Gomez & The Scene, quickly became one of their signature tracks thanks to its shimmering electro-pop sound and irresistibly catchy hook. From their third studio album When the Sun Goes Down, this song is playful yet sophisticated, blending dreamy synths with futuristic production that was ahead of its time. The lyrics use clever metaphors to express the timeless feeling of love, wrapped in a sound that feels both fresh and nostalgic. Selena’s light, airy vocal delivery perfectly matches the song’s whimsical vibe, making it easy to sing along to and perfect for the dance floor. The song went on to achieve massive commercial success worldwide, earning multi-platinum certifications and becoming a karaoke staple thanks to its memorable chorus. More than just a pop hit, “Love You Like a Love Song” captures the magic and mystery of love in a way that feels relatable and fun. It’s a song that fans continue to adore, showing off Selena’s ability to create music that sticks in your head long after it’s over.
3. Lose You to Love Me (2019)
With “Lose You to Love Me,” Selena Gomez took a deeply personal and vulnerable turn in 2019, releasing the song as the lead single from her album Rare. This stripped-down ballad focuses on heartbreak, healing, and self-discovery, capturing the raw emotions that come with letting go of a toxic relationship. The minimalistic piano arrangement puts Selena’s voice front and center, allowing her to express the pain and eventual strength that come with losing someone in order to find herself. The haunting melody perfectly complements lyrics like “I needed to lose you to love me,” which resonate deeply with listeners who have faced similar struggles. “Lose You to Love Me” marked a milestone for Selena—it was her first song to hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, and it received widespread praise for its honesty and emotional depth. This song showed a more mature side of Selena, revealing her growth both as an artist and as a person. It’s a powerful anthem about reclaiming your identity and finding peace after loss, making it one of her most impactful and beloved releases.
4. The Heart Wants What It Wants (2014)
Released in 2014, “The Heart Wants What It Wants” stands out as one of Selena Gomez’s most emotionally raw and honest songs. Featured on her compilation album For You, this ballad explores the complicated feelings involved in being drawn to someone despite the pain they might cause. The track’s haunting production, which layers delicate piano with atmospheric beats, perfectly frames Selena’s vulnerable vocals and confessional lyrics. The song’s title itself speaks to the helplessness of love—the idea that the heart often makes choices beyond reason or logic. Fans connected deeply with the track’s honesty, as Selena openly confronted the ups and downs of a difficult relationship. The stark black-and-white music video enhances the song’s emotional weight, showing Selena in intimate, introspective moments. “The Heart Wants What It Wants” resonated widely and earned critical acclaim for its authenticity and emotional impact. It remains a defining moment in her discography, a testament to her ability to turn personal struggles into universally relatable music that touches listeners’ hearts.
5. Rare (2020)
“Rare,” the title track from Selena Gomez’s 2020 album, is a bright and empowering anthem about self-love and embracing your unique value. Unlike some of her more melancholic songs, “Rare” is upbeat and shimmering, with a smooth, infectious groove that immediately draws you in. The lyrics encourage listeners to recognize their worth and celebrate what makes them different, reminding us all that we are special and deserving of love and respect. Selena’s silky, intimate vocals add warmth and sincerity to the track, making it feel personal and relatable even as it pumps with energy. The song’s message of confidence and individuality resonated strongly in a time when many people were seeking positivity and encouragement. Critics praised “Rare” for blending contemporary pop sounds with an uplifting theme, showcasing Selena’s evolution as an artist who can create both catchy tunes and meaningful messages. It’s a standout on the album and a favorite among fans, embodying growth, self-acceptance, and the joy of being unapologetically yourself.
6. Wolves (2017)
In 2017, Selena Gomez joined forces with electronic music producer Marshmello to create “Wolves,” an electrifying single that blends ethereal pop melodies with powerful EDM beats. The song stands out for its emotional depth wrapped in a dynamic and pulsating soundscape, perfectly balancing vulnerability with energy. Selena’s vocals are haunting yet strong, telling a story of perseverance, longing, and the struggle to hold on despite challenges. The track builds beautifully, starting with a gentle, airy intro before exploding into an anthemic drop that highlights Marshmello’s signature production style. “Wolves” showcases Selena’s versatility, as she seamlessly moves into electronic dance music territory without losing her emotional authenticity. The song became a global hit, dominating streaming platforms and radio charts alike, and was praised for its innovative sound and heartfelt lyrics. “Wolves” perfectly captures a blend of pop and EDM while maintaining a deeply personal feel, making it both a dancefloor favorite and a meaningful listening experience. It remains one of the standout collaborations in Selena’s career and a fan favorite that proves her ability to evolve and experiment with different genres.
7. It Ain’t Me (2017)
“It Ain’t Me” is a 2017 collaboration between Selena Gomez and Norwegian DJ Kygo that perfectly captures the bittersweet pain of moving on from a toxic relationship. The track falls into the tropical house genre, with breezy, sun-soaked beats that contrast beautifully with the song’s somber lyrics. Selena’s emotive vocal delivery adds a layer of depth and sincerity, making the heartbreak feel real and relatable. The lyrics describe the moment when someone realizes they can no longer be part of a relationship that’s damaging, and it’s time to walk away—even though it’s hard. Kygo’s smooth production and melodic synths create a warm yet melancholy atmosphere that complements Selena’s story of acceptance and letting go. “It Ain’t Me” was a commercial success worldwide, topping charts and becoming a staple on both pop and electronic playlists. Its blend of catchy melodies and emotional storytelling helped solidify Selena’s presence in the dance-pop scene while showing off her ability to express complex emotions with subtlety and grace. The song remains a powerful anthem about self-respect and moving forward.
8. Same Old Love (2015)
From her 2015 album Revival, “Same Old Love” is a mid-tempo pop anthem that mixes jazzy undertones with minimalist production, creating a cool and confident vibe. The song captures the frustration of being stuck in a repetitive cycle of unhealthy relationships, with Selena’s raspy vocals perfectly conveying the mix of weariness and resolve. The lyrics express a powerful message of breaking free from negativity and refusing to settle for less than you deserve. It’s an anthem of empowerment for anyone tired of the “same old love” that brings more pain than joy. The catchy hook and relatable theme made it an instant hit with fans and critics alike, earning praise for its honest storytelling and fresh sound. The understated yet stylish production allows Selena’s voice and message to shine through, making the song both catchy and meaningful. “Same Old Love” remains one of Selena’s most memorable singles, resonating with listeners who appreciate its blend of emotional depth and pop sensibility.
9. Who Says (2011)
Released in 2011 as a single from When the Sun Goes Down, “Who Says” is a bright, uplifting pop anthem dedicated to self-confidence and self-love. The song’s warm acoustic production creates an intimate backdrop for Selena’s heartfelt vocals, which deliver a powerful message about embracing your imperfections and celebrating your individuality. With lyrics that encourage listeners to reject negativity and believe in their worth, “Who Says” quickly became an empowering anthem for fans of all ages. The simplicity of the song’s arrangement makes its inspiring message stand out, reminding everyone that they are enough just as they are. Selena’s sincere delivery adds authenticity, making it easy for listeners to connect with the song on a personal level. “Who Says” remains one of her most beloved tracks, continuing to inspire people to be confident and true to themselves in a world that often pressures conformity. Its positive and timeless message has helped it endure as a staple of Selena’s musical legacy.
10. Back to You (2018)
“Back to You,” released in 2018 as part of the 13 Reasons Why Season 2 soundtrack, is a poignant exploration of longing and unresolved feelings in a complicated relationship. The track’s lush, atmospheric production perfectly complements Selena Gomez’s emotive vocal performance, capturing the bittersweet nature of love that lingers even when it’s painful. The lyrics express a vulnerability and honesty that many listeners relate to—the feeling of being drawn back to someone despite knowing the relationship may not be healthy or easy. The melody is infectious, with a memorable chorus that stays with you long after the song ends. “Back to You” received widespread praise for its emotional depth and polished sound, showcasing Selena’s growth as an artist capable of conveying complex feelings through music. The song became a standout hit, resonating deeply with fans and critics alike. It highlights Selena’s unique ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with catchy pop production, making it a lasting favorite in her discography.
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.
