Selena Gomez’s journey from Disney pop princess to a more mature artist has been anything but predictable.
A year ago, the Texas native seemed to signal her exit from the music scene, shifting her focus entirely to acting.
With a breakout role in the hit series Only Murders In The Building and several prestigious nominations for her acting work, including BAFTA and Golden Globe nods, Gomez appeared ready to step away from her pop career.
But as we all know, it’s hard to fully leave behind something that has been so intertwined with who you are.
A Love Story in Music
Despite her initial intentions, it turns out that leaving music wasn’t as simple as Gomez had imagined.
Enter Benny Blanco, the talented American producer, who also happens to be her fiancé.
Their two-year relationship has reignited Selena’s passion for music, leading to the release of I Said I Love You First, her first full-length album since 2020’s Rare.
This album marks a significant return to music, and it’s clear that the personal connection with Blanco has inspired something special.
The record is a reflection of their own love story, capturing everything from their initial meeting, to falling in love, and pondering the future together.
The Sound of Change
The album itself is an autobiographical journey, and while its concept may sound like a romantic Hollywood project, the final result is surprisingly subtle.
While there are moments that may evoke a sense of overly sweet sentimentality, Gomez’s approach to this love story is introspective and intimate.
The album opens with a heartfelt farewell to an unnamed ex-lover, setting the stage for a more reflective, emotional tone.
As the songs progress, there’s a shift in mood, where Selena’s newfound love fills the air with optimism.
Romance, Heartache, and Growth
Songs like Sunset Blvd flirt with sultry innuendos, while Cowboy embraces the ballad form with echoes of Lana Del Rey’s signature style.
For the more upbeat tracks, there’s Call Me When You Break Up, a duet with Gracie Abrams where Selena plays the role of a supportive friend.
It’s an emotional high point, with Gomez offering solace and understanding to someone in need.
Another standout track, Bluest Flame, features backing vocals from Charli XCX and leans into the electronic dance music world with an edge similar to Charli’s own hits.
However, I Can’t Get Enough, which features Colombian singer J Balvin, seems somewhat out of place, as it was originally released six years ago as a single.
An Ending Full of Reflection
The album ends on a poignant note with Scared of Loving You, a final ballad that hints at the complexities of a relationship, even when everything seems perfect.
Written with Billie Eilish’s brother Finneas, the song adds depth to the narrative, reflecting on the idea that past mistakes can resurface in the future.
“When I was young, I would love too fast,” Gomez sings, offering a hint of caution amidst the fairytale romance.
It’s a more mature perspective on love, showing that she’s no longer the same Disney pop princess who once captured the hearts of millions.
From Disney Star to Mature Artist
Selena Gomez’s evolution as an artist is evident throughout I Said I Love You First.
What started as a pop career shaped by her Disney Channel roots has now grown into a more nuanced, thoughtful body of work.
With Blanco’s production guiding her through this journey, Gomez has successfully transformed her music and her image, making her mark as a more mature, multifaceted artist.
This album proves that sometimes the most meaningful growth happens when we least expect it.