AOTW: Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco – I Said I Loved You First

April 3rd, 2025 by Liz Kosik

by Sylvia Gredzinski ‘27

Album of The Week: Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco – I Said I Loved You First 

Released: March 21, 2025

Rate: 8/10

RIYL: Gracie Abrams, Troye Sivan, Sabrina Carpenter 

Selena Gomez is a multi-talented singer, actress, and producer known for her emotional, diary-like songwriting and smooth vocal delivery. From her early pop hits with Stars Dance to the introspective sounds of Rare and Revelación, she has continuously evolved as an artist, blending pop, R&B, and Latin influences. 

Benny Blanco is a Grammy-winning producer and songwriter who has worked with some of the biggest names in pop, including Justin Bieber, Ed Sheeran, and Halsey. Known for his ability to craft catchy yet emotionally resonant music, Blanco brings his signature production style to this collaboration, enhancing Gomez’s heartfelt lyrics with lush, atmospheric instrumentals. 

Together, the couple creates a beautifully cohesive project that balances tenderness with infectious melodies, making I Said I Loved You First a standout in both of their careers. 

This album is a deeply personal and emotional pop album that blends soft, heartfelt ballads with dreamy, upbeat pop production. The album explores themes of love, longing, and vulnerability. Gomez’s signature delicate vocals, paired with Blanco’s polished yet intimate production, create a nostalgic and raw listening experience. The album feels both deeply personal and universally relatable, making it resonate with listeners navigating love and heartache.