Did Selena Gomez’s ‘Bad Liar’ End Up Being the Career Turning Point We Thought It Might Be?
On April 15, 2025
Table of Contents
- Key Highlights
- Introduction
- The Context of 'Bad Liar'
- Mixed Reception and Reflection
- Collaborators and Their Impact
- Legacy and Evolution Post-'Bad Liar'
- Critical Insights and Analysis
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Key Highlights
- "Bad Liar" Overview: Released in 2017, this single was an ambitious departure from Selena Gomez's previous pop sound, co-written by Julia Michaels and Justin Tranter, and heavily sampling the Talking Heads' "Psycho Killer."
- Critical Acclaim vs. Commercial Response: While the song received widespread acclaim from critics and fans, its commercial performance was underwhelming compared to expectations, sparking discussions about Gomez’s future direction.
- Legacy Revisited: Eight years later, reflections on the song's impact and its significance in Gomez's career reveal insights into how it has shaped her artistic identity and subsequent releases.
Introduction
On the date of March 27, 2025, the “Great Moments in Pop Star History” podcast revisits a pivotal moment for Selena Gomez: the release of "Bad Liar." Despite its acclaim among critics, the song's muted commercial performance led to questions about its long-term impact on her career. Released at a time when Gomez was enjoying her most successful period, the single marked a significant stylistic evolution for the artist. Was it merely a departure from the mainstream, or did it lay the groundwork for what was to come? This article explores the context, reception, and ongoing legacy of "Bad Liar," providing a comprehensive retrospective on its role in shaping Selena Gomez's artistry.
The Context of 'Bad Liar'
In 2015, Gomez’s album Revival catapulted her into a new realm of stardom, featuring hit singles like "Good for You" and "Same Old Love." By the time "Bad Liar" reached audiences in 2017, Gomez appeared poised for continued success. The song, embodying a more mature and sophisticated sound, was co-written with collaborators Julia Michaels and Justin Tranter, who were rising stars in the pop music scene. This collaboration was significant, as Michaels and Tranter had previously contributed to several of Gomez's previous hits.
Lyrically, "Bad Liar" is a complex narrative woven through the lens of a tumultuous relationship. Gomez's use of character and emotion invited listeners into a layered story, enhancing the song’s artistic depth. The bold choice to sample the bassline from Talking Heads' "Psycho Killer" showcased Gomez’s willingness to experiment and push boundaries.
Despite the critical acclaim that met the song—including praise for its innovative production and Gomez’s vocal delivery—its commercial performance fell short of expectations. It peaked at number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and struggled to gain traction on radio, a striking contrast to her earlier releases.
Mixed Reception and Reflection
Although "Bad Liar" was well-received critically—drawing admiration for its unique composition and production—it did not resonate widely on charts. This sparked discussions among music experts and fans alike regarding the disconnect between artistic merit and commercial success. During a recent episode of the “Greatest Pop Stars” podcast, hosts Andrew Unterberger and Billboard’s executive director of music, Jason Lipshutz, revisited the implications of this disconnect, probing the notion that artistic evolution often comes at the cost of broad acceptance.
In the years following its release, many fans and critics have leaned towards considering "Bad Liar" as one of the best songs of 2017, and a turning point in Gomez's trajectory. Andrew Unterberger emphasized the rarity of a pop single that combines commerciality with artistic integrity, especially one that resonates with both old fans and new listeners who may have overlooked Gomez prior to this release. Yet, the question remains: Did it effectively alter the course of her career?
Collaborators and Their Impact
The role of collaborators Michaels and Tranter cannot be overstated in the creation of "Bad Liar." Their expertise in writing and producing pop music allowed Gomez to explore new soundscapes and vulnerability in her songwriting. The incorporation of multiple musical influences, the playful narrative style, and unconventional sonic choices breathed life into a project that might have otherwise been a standard pop fare.
Michaels and Tranter, having established their credentials with other high-profile artists, offered Gomez not just songs but a new artistic identity. Their shared vision helped shape “Bad Liar” into a standout track recognized for its cleverness and emotional depth. The resulting collaboration enabled Gomez to showcase a more complex, layered performance, one that felt authentic and relatable.
As Gomez has continued to evolve as an artist, it’s evident that the artistic principles highlighted in “Bad Liar”—from storytelling to experimental production—have influenced her subsequent work.
Legacy and Evolution Post-'Bad Liar'
Fast forward to 2025, the landscape of pop music has transformed drastically, with Selena Gomez also evolving alongside it. Her recent album I Said I Love You First, produced in tandem with her longtime collaborator Benny Blanco, draws thematic links to “Bad Liar.” The new work showcases personal insights and musical inventiveness, echoing the growth that began with the 2017 single.
In examining Handel's historic role in advocating for better representation within the industry, the new music marks a return to Gomez's roots, while simultaneously pushing her further into unexplored territories. This confluence of history and progression illustrates how "Bad Liar" ultimately served as a catalyst for Gomez's artistic journey, allowing her to experiment without the detrimental pressures of commercial performance.
Critical Insights and Analysis
The enduring conversation surrounding "Bad Liar" raises an essential question about the nature of success in the music industry: Is commercial success always the ultimate goal, or can artistic integrity co-exist with selective popularity? The discussions on the podcast reveal a landscape where artists are not merely successful based on chart metrics but how they cultivate their legacy through creative risks.
Moreover, the incorporation of moments from Gomez's personal life—be it her health struggles or her advocacy—has become part of her public persona. Allowing her viewers and listeners to connect with her on a personal level has arguably enhanced her relationship with her fan base, beyond just musical appreciation.
Conclusion
As "Bad Liar" remains a significant chapter in Selena Gomez's career, its evolution continues to be examined and discussed. With its critical reception growing stronger over the years, and its influence evident in her subsequent works, "Bad Liar" invites listeners to appreciate the nuanced relationship between an artist's vision and the ever-changing nature of popular music. The podcast discussion highlights that while "Bad Liar" may not have achieved the commercial heights anticipated, its impact on Gomez's career and artistry is undeniable, paving the way for future explorations as she continues to break boundaries and reinvent herself as an artist.
FAQ
What is the significance of the song "Bad Liar"?
"Bad Liar" stands out for its artistic ambition, critical acclaim, and as a pivotal moment in Selena Gomez's career, showcasing her growth as an artist.
Why did "Bad Liar" not perform as well commercially?
Despite its innovative sound and storytelling, "Bad Liar" faced challenges in achieving radio play and broad streaming success, limiting its commercial impact compared to Gomez’s previous hits.
How did collaborators influence the song?
The collaboration with Julia Michaels and Justin Tranter brought fresh perspectives and innovative production to "Bad Liar," contributing to its unique sound and lyrical depth.
What can we learn from the legacy of "Bad Liar"?
The song exemplifies the tension between artistic integrity and commercial success in the music industry, encouraging ongoing discussions about the true markers of success for artists.
Has Selena Gomez’s career evolved since "Bad Liar"?
Yes, since "Bad Liar," Gomez has continued to explore new musical directions and themes, most notably with her album I Said I Love You First, reflecting her growth and evolution as an artist.
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