Selena Gomez is no longer holding back. With the release of I Said I Love You First, the singer peels away any remnants of her squeaky-clean Disney past, embracing vulnerability, sensuality, and raw emotion. The album, a sonic love letter to her fiancé Benny Blanco, spans nearly two years of their relationship and doesn’t shy away from the steamy details.
A Journey From Heartbreak to Passion
Gomez opens the album on a sentimental note, thanking those who have supported her, but she quickly shifts gears. Young and Hotter Than Me sets the tone for her newfound confidence. A melancholic piano ballad reminiscent of Lana Del Rey, the track takes aim at an ex who shattered her heart—fans speculate the subject is none other than Justin Bieber.
Her emotions oscillate throughout the album. On Ojos Tristes, she gives in to old habits, slipping back into the arms of a past lover one last time. But by the time she reaches Don’t Wanna Cry, she’s ready to move forward, unapologetically embracing her new love story with Blanco.
No Holding Back: Selena Gets Bold and Playful
Gomez and Blanco waste no time heating things up. Sunset Blvd captures their electrifying first date, where she teases listeners with a suggestive build-up before revealing, “Big, big… heart!”
Things get even steamier with Cowboy, a breathy, flirtatious track filled with playful innuendos. The chemistry continues on Bluest Flame, where Gomez’s voice drifts over a Charli XCX-inspired production, layered with heavy AutoTune.
- How Does It Feel to Be Forgotten delivers one of the album’s most biting moments, as Gomez erases memories of past relationships with sharp, cutting lyrics.
- I Can’t Get Enough revels in love-drunk euphoria, celebrating a connection so deep that the rest of the world fades away.
Balancing the Chaos: Production Shines in Some Places, Falters in Others
While Gomez takes center stage vocally, Blanco’s fingerprints are all over the production. At times, his work elevates the songs, blending atmospheric beats with Gomez’s ethereal vocals. At others, it veers into disarray, particularly on Bluest Flame, where excessive effects drown out the emotion.
The album thrives on its ability to shift tones. From heartbreak to lust to deep devotion, I Said I Love You First captures every facet of Gomez’s emotions.
Closing on a Vulnerable Note
Gomez and Blanco wrap up their musical love story with Scared of Loving You, a haunting, voicemail-like track where she admits that losing him would devastate her. It’s a poignant moment, one that leaves listeners wondering what’s next for the couple—both personally and musically.
