Selena Gomez embodies the spirit of the ‘romance’ of ‘13 Reasons Why’ into single and the 13 Reasons Why: Season 2soundtrack opener, “Back to You.”

“Took you like a shot / Thought that I could chase you with a cold evening / Let a couple years water down how I’m feeling about you.” Oh Selena Gomez, my dear! On Friday, May 18, 2018, the world will get more 13 Reasons Why – awesome!  Yes, the series (and the book by Jay Asher that preceded it) is controversial, but it’s also must-see television.  Where does Gomez come into the picture? She’s an executive producer of the series. She also drops a track on the soundtrack for the second season of the show, “Back to You.” Does she nail it?

Hmm, saying Selena Gomez ‘nails’ “Back to You” would be an overstatement.  Listening to the record and getting into the 13 Reasons Why mindset (not suicidal mindset mind you), this single definitely embodies the spirit of the narrative, whether that’s intentional or more coincidental.  No, the second season of the Netflix series hasn’t been released as of publication time, but knowing what occurs in the first season, fans can see where this song could fit.

As far as the song examined without 13 Reasons Why in mind, it’s respectable, but not revolutionary.  Selena Gomez keeps things relatively restrained throughout the course of the verses, but she does exhibit more punch on the chorus.  If the verses tend to have more of a singer/songwriter vibe (acoustic guitar-fueled), the chorus embraces the dominant electro-pop of the day (them synths baby!).  It’s not quite as pronounced as some EDM, but it’s definitely still EDM.

Final Thoughts

How many times is “Back to You” worth spinning? If you’re a big-time Selena Gomez fan, this will appeal. If you’re more of a casual fan, and you’re looking for another smash hit like “Good for You” or perhaps even “Wolves”, “Back to You,” IMO, isn’t quite as accomplished as those.

Selena Gomez • 13 Reasons Why: Season 2 (Music from the Original TV Series) • Interscope • Release: 5.18.18

Photo Credit: Interscope