Released on January 10, 2020, Rare is Selena Gomez’s third studio album, marking a pivotal moment in her career. After a four-year musical hiatus, Gomez returned with an album that highlights her journey of personal growth and emotional healing.
Background and Creation
The Rare album took three years (2016–2019) to produce, with Selena Gomez playing an active role as the album’s executive producer. She poured her heart into the project, shaping it around her personal experiences, including her battle with lupus and struggles with mental health.
These challenges deeply influenced the album, making it raw and emotional, with each song reflecting her personal growth and journey.
Key Themes and Music Style
The main themes of Rare revolve around self-love, empowerment, and resilience. The title track, Rare, stands out as a celebration of embracing your uniqueness and not settling for less. Musically, the album blends pop, dance-pop, and R&B, with subtle touches of Latin and electronic influences.
Selena’s soft vocals are paired with upbeat rhythms and emotionally charged lyrics, creating a fresh and introspective musical vibe that resonates with listeners on a personal level.
Notable Tracks
Several songs from Rare gained popularity with fans and critics alike:
- Lose You to Love Me: This lead single became Selena’s first song to reach #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. It explores the themes of heartbreak and self-recovery, resonating deeply with listeners.
- Look at Her Now: A powerful anthem celebrating overcoming obstacles, this track became a fan favorite for its upbeat energy.
- Rare: The title track, with its catchy beat and empowering message, became one of the album’s standout songs.
Additional hits from the deluxe edition, like Boyfriend, further added depth to the album’s narrative and emotional journey.
Critical Reception and Commercial Success
Rare debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking a significant milestone in both its commercial and critical success. Critics praised Selena Gomez for her emotional honesty, and the album’s production was lauded for being cohesive and well-executed.
Tracks like Lose You to Love Me and Rare were widely praised for their vulnerability and meaningful messages. The album topped charts in multiple countries and earned several RIAA certifications, confirming its global success.
Promotion and Impact
Selena heavily promoted Rare through strategic appearances, social media engagement, and live performances. She shared behind-the-scenes content and insights into the making of the album, building anticipation among her fans.
Performances on shows like The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon helped boost album sales and deepen her connection with her audience. The album’s introspective and personal themes resonated with fans who had followed Selena’s journey, ensuring Rare would have a lasting impact.
Influence on Selena’s Income
The success of Rare had a significant effect on Selena Gomez’s income. With hit singles and strong album sales, Selena earned increased royalties and streaming revenue.
The album’s success also boosted her branding power, opening doors for new high-profile endorsements and partnerships. Through Rare, Selena solidified her place as a prominent figure not just in music but also in the business world.
FAQs About the Rare Album
What is the main message of Selena Gomez’s Rare album?
The album emphasizes themes of self-worth, empowerment, and embracing personal challenges.
Which song from Rare became Selena Gomez’s first #1 hit?
Lose You to Love Me was her first song to hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
How did Selena Gomez promote Rare?
Selena used social media, live performances, and TV appearances to engage her fans and promote the album.
