Gwen Stefani’s talent, energy, and cool vibes make a favorites list close to impossible to construct, since she has so many great tunes under her belt. Right from the beginning in No Doubt, Stefani was a beloved fixture for girls everywhere to look up to. Stefani’s multifaceted career and enduring influence continue to inspire fans worldwide. StudyFinds set out to compile a list of the top seven best Gwen Stefani songs of all time based on recommendations from eight experts. If you have your own suggestions, please leave them in the comments below!
The List: Best Gwen Stefani Songs, According to Fans
1. “Don’t Speak” (1996)
“Don’t Speak” covers the breakdown of relationships, and how moving on can be bitter sweet. More specifically it covers the end of Gwen’s seven-year relationship with No Doubt’s bassist Tony Kanal. It was written before they got big, so when it came out, Rolling Stone says it took on a whole new meaning.
This emotional ballad is relatable because most people understand the struggle of letting go, even when you know it is best. If you were in high school in the 1990s, this song was surely one of your anthems. It was iconic and its three million copies sold is proof, according to The Richest.
While Gwen’s brother, Eric, did originally write the song, Gwen changed much of it before it was recorded. Kiss 95.1 notes that she changed it due to her breakup. Gwen actually has three siblings — a younger brother and sister and her older brother Eric.
2. “Just a Girl” (1995)
Who can forget this relatable breakout hit? This song can take on many meanings, but Gwen wrote it as a reaction her dad lecturing her after driving home late from visiting her then-boyfriend. Rock Mommy claims Stefani says in an interview, “The guys don’t understand what a burden it can be.”
If you were teen in the 1990s, then you were definitely belting this song. Gwen Stefani was the coolest thing to hit the music scene at the time. Rolling Stone describes her as using “a hyperfeminine delivery before it transforms into a more vicious voice over the increasingly rapid, retro beat.”
Kiss 95.1 says that this was the first song that Stefani wrote without the help of her then keyboard-playing brother. As woman, we all have our struggles. Gwen had hers, in addition to strict parents.
3. “What You Waiting For?” (2004)
This song was one of Gwen’s reintroductions as a talented solo artist. The song title is in reference to herself, rather an assumption of a potential lover. Watch Mojo describes it as a heavy Euro beat.
The song gets deeper than you’d think speaking on Gwen’s self reflection and her own fears and drive. Produced by Nellee Hooper, The Richest admits that the song embodies the essence of Gwen’s artistic journey.
If you’re a writer in any capacity, this song is relatable as she speaks on the struggles of writers block. This song is clearly not an example of any blocks as Stefani continues to portray her true self in her music. Rolling Stone attributes the song to her authenticity.
4. “Hollaback Girl” (2005)
This song may be one of the first you think about when you think of Gwen Stefani songs. While some listeners may have gotten sick of this song, you can’t deny that it fit Gwen Stefani’s style to a T. Watch Mojo commends her for the different approach compared to her other songs.
“Hollaback Girl” was a continuation of Gwen putting out bangers. The Neptunes helped her write this response song to Courtney Love calling her a cheerleader. Rolling Stone points out that the song taught us all how to spell bananas. They’re not wrong.
Kiss 95.1 is impressed with the choreography in this video, and they’re not alone. Gwen’s Harajuku Girls impress everyone with their choreography, so much that they won Best Choreography that year at the VMAs.
5. “Spiderwebs” (1995)
This funky song is another hit from her time in No Doubt. It is in reference to a caller stalking her on the phone. Rolling Stone comments on its hypnotizing bridge leading into a booming outro. Both she and ex-boyfriend Tony Kanal produced the song.
Debuting in 1995, Kiss 95.1 remembers its video which took place at a wedding. The song references Gwen’s list of potential suitors. Everyone in the video gets caught up in what is probably reference to a ”spiderweb” eventually becoming freed.
No Doubt’s “Tragic Kingdom” album opened with this song. uDiscover Music hails it as another Stefani and Kanal joint venture, it’s the catchiest song about phone-stalking or “a telephonic invasion’ to date.”
6. “Underneath It All” (2001)
This No Doubt song is beachy, incorporating a guest vocal appearance by Jamaican artist Lady Saw. uDiscover Music informs us that the song was co-written by Eurythmics’ Dave Stewart.
The Richest informs us that the music video was produced by Sly & RobbieEx. Gavin Rossdale makes an appearance in the video as well, showing their (then) bond. The song itself sold 680,000 copies.
Lyrics in this song come from journal entries she wrote about Gavin Rossdale after spending the day with him. No Doubt won a Best Pop Performance By a Duo Or Group With Vocal Grammy Award for the record, according to liveabout.
7. “The Sweet Escape” ft. Akon (2006)
This collaboration with Akon is an undeniable classic in Stefani’s discography. Akon wrote this addicting tune that made it to number two on the Billboard chart, according to Watch Mojo.
“The Sweet Escape” sold 780,000 copies. The Richest describes its lyrics as infectious and uplifting. The song takes us on a euphoric journey through a vibrant world that will lift anyone’s spirits.
Before even starting to write the song, Akon developed its beat. Kiss 95.1 says that it was the best collaboration of its time. The mixture of Akon’s catchy “weeee-hoooo” and Stefani’s classic sound make for a song that is unforgettable. Some might even argue it should be higher on our list. What do you think?
A Breakdown of Gwen Stefani’s Career:
Music:
- As the lead singer of No Doubt: Stefani rose to fame in the 1990s with the band No Doubt, known for their ska-punk sound.
- Solo career: Launching her solo career in 2004, Stefani achieved massive success with albums like her debut “Love. Angel. Music. Baby.”
- Genre-bending sound: Throughout her career, Stefani has experimented with various musical styles, incorporating pop, rock, dance, and even reggae influences into her music.
- Grammy Awards and recognition: She has won three Grammy Awards and received numerous other accolades for her musical contributions.
Fashion:
- L.A.M.B. clothing line: In 2004, Stefani launched her fashion line L.A.M.B., known for its bold and eclectic designs inspired by her Harajuku style.
- Harajuku Lovers fragrance: Her first fragrance, “Harajuku Lovers,” was a huge commercial success, solidifying her connection to Japanese fashion and culture.
- Fashion icon: Stefani’s unique style has made her a fashion icon, influencing trends and inspiring countless designers.
Television:
- “The Voice” coach: Since 2014, Stefani has been a coach on the popular singing competition show “The Voice,” showcasing her mentorship skills and passion for music.
Personal life:
- Married to Blake Shelton: In 2021, Stefani married country music star Blake Shelton in a beautiful ceremony, marking a new chapter in her personal life.
- Three children: She has three children from her previous marriage to musician Gavin Rossdale.
Sources:
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