I Said I Love You First, the highly-anticipated debut collaborative album from Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco, is a deeply intimate and emotionally charged project that marks the beginning of a new era in both artists’ careers. Releases via SMG Music/Friends Keep Secrets/Interscope Records, the album offers a rare glimpse into the evolving love story of two of pop music’s most talented and influential figures. From the raw vulnerability of their songwriting to the captivating production, I Said I Love You First delivers an intoxicating sonic experience that intertwines both Gomez and Blanco’s strengths, creating a seamless blend of vulnerability, passion, and unforgettable melodies.

The album opens with its title track, “I Said I Love You First,” setting the tone for the emotional depth that pervades the entire album. The song feels like the heart of the album, offering a window into the duo’s personal connection. With its delicate blend of pianos, strings, and minimalist production, Gomez’s soulful voice shines through as she sings about the complexities of love and the weight of unspoken emotions. This is a common thread throughout the album: a focus on the emotional intricacies that come with falling in love, dealing with heartache, and seeking closure.

One of the album’s standout tracks is “Younger and Hotter Than Me,” which debuted alongside its visually stunning music video. Directed by Jake Shreier, the video perfectly complements the song’s theme of insecurities and self-doubt in a relationship. The track itself is a testament to Blanco’s signature production style—catchy yet sentimentally resonant. Gomez delivers her lines with both confidence and vulnerability, capturing the awkwardness and intensity of grappling with jealousy in a relationship. It’s an infectious yet relatable anthem for anyone that has ever been haunted by the fear of being overshadowed by a former love.

“Scared of Loving You” is another moment where the duo’s chemistry truly shines. Written by Gomez, Blanco, and GRAMMY®-winning artist FINNEAS, the track is an introspective ballad that explores the fears and hesitations that accompany the vulnerability of love. The emotional weight of the song is amplified by Gomez’s heartfelt delivery and Blanco’s meticulous production, which perfectly complements the reflective tone of the lyrics.

In addition to the more introspective tracks, I Said I Love You First also features a number of uptempo, playful songs that highlight the duo’s range. “Sunset Blvd,” inspired by their first date on the iconic Hollywood street, is a dreamy, nostalgic pop track that evokes the magic of a new relationship. The video for “Sunset Blvd,” directed by Petra Collins, amplifies this feeling with its cinematic visuals, transporting listeners to the carefree moments of young love. “Don’t Wanna Cry” and “Cowboy” offer fun, buoyant moments on the album, providing a contrast to the more somber tracks while still maintaining the emotional depth that defines the album.

The track “Ojos Tristes” brings a welcome shift in tone, with its Latin-inspired rhythms and passionate delivery. It’s a standout moment, showcasing Gomez’s versatility as an artist. Blanco’s ability to seamlessly blend different musical genres throughout the album is evident here, as he pairs smooth, rhythmic instrumentation with emotionally resonant lyrics.

Tracks like “Bluest Flame” and “How Does It Feel To Be Forgotten” delve into the darker side of relationships, capturing the intense feelings of longing, loss, and the complexities of moving on. These songs are poignant and introspective, demonstrating Gomez’s growth as a songwriter and her ability to convey raw, unfiltered emotions.

The album ends with the somber “I Can’t Get Enough” and the reflective “Don’t Take It Personally,” offering a bittersweet conclusion to the journey. These final tracks serve as a reminder that love is never simple, and the pursuit of happiness can often be fraught with uncertainty and vulnerability.

I Said I Love You First isn’t just about love; it’s about the raw emotions that come with it. It’s an exploration of vulnerability, fear, and the unspoken truths that shape our relationships. In this album, Gomez and Blanco have crafted something that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the highs and lows of love—and it’s a masterpiece that showcases their undeniable musical chemistry.

1. I Said I Love You First
2. Younger and Hotter Than Me
3. Call Me When You Break Up
4. Ojos Tristes
5. Don’t Wanna Cry
6. Sunset Blvd
7. Cowboy
8. Bluest Flame
9. How Does It Feel To Be Forgotten
10. Do You Wanna Be Perfect
11. You Said You Were Sorry
13. Don’t Take It Personally
14. Scared of Loving You

I Said I Love You First is now available for streaming on all platforms.