Selena Gomez dropped her new album, “Rare,” on Jan. 10. With back-to-back Instagram posts promoting the album, Gomez teased fans with lyrics such as, “If the only other option’s letting go – I’ll stay vulnerable,” “People can go from people you know to people you don’t” and “I gotta get you out my head now… I just cut you off.” After four brutal years of personal struggles and being off the grid, Gomez is back with an extremely unique approach to self-love and personal empowerment, taking a strong, independent spin with her music this time. Being only her third solo album, Selenators were expecting a lot—and she brought it.
Gomez dropped “Lose You to Love Me,” the first single from the “Rare” album, on Oct. 23 of last year. This hit quickly made its way to the top of the charts and became the singer’s first-ever Billboard No. 1. The song delves deep into Gomez’s journey of putting herself before her relationships. After giving her all to others without the same in return, she takes a healthier outlook on her approach by acknowledging these traits and finally saying goodbye. This song is perfect for anyone who needs to be reminded of the power of new beginnings. Listeners gained a deep and emotional look into Gomez’s vulnerability, which is a key message she goes back to throughout the entire album.
My personal favorite song, “Ring,” gives an alternative vibe to her more elevated album. As she calls out an ex-boyfriend for failing to appreciate her worth, she flexes her self-confidence on a new level. Interestingly, fans have been bantering about this track on social media. Selenators believe that “Ring” is making stabs at her previous long-term boyfriend, Justin Bieber. On the other hand, some listeners see “Ring” as if Gomez is showing us how she is dangling all of her past lovers over everyone’s heads. Either way, fans are glad she is able to speak about her recent experiences, and she even incorporates her Latinx roots in this track.
After “Lose You to Love Me” and “Look at Her Now” were released, Gomez gave us the iconic record “Rare,” further establishing the honesty she showed throughout her two singles. With features from 6lack and Kid Cudi, Gomez pushes her music to an even larger audience. Selena Gomez’s new album “Rare” has given us new, infectious tracks that are supplemented with R&B and rap beats. Gomez has gotten some great feedback since the release of this album, and it is clear that she has taken some artistic risks with “Rare” that definitely paid off.
