Gwen Stefani, born on October 3, 1969, has consistently defied genre boundaries throughout her impressive 20-year career with No Doubt and her equally successful solo journey. She has solidified her status as not just one of the most successful women in rock, but a true pop icon. Stefani, alongside No Doubt, was instrumental in igniting the ska craze in America. Her ability to consistently reinvent herself with each decade has allowed her to not only outlast trends but to dictate them. While her career is studded with multi-platinum hits, Stefani’s unwavering musical intuition has always led the way, with the pop world eagerly following. Her collaborations span an eclectic range, from Prince to The Neptunes and Elvis Costello, showcasing her deep appreciation for reggae, 80s pop, and new wave, seamlessly weaving these influences into the mainstream even during the height of grunge. Beyond her captivating personality, Stefani’s genuine emotional honesty and innate ear for melody have been pivotal in shaping modern pop music since her debut in the 90s. Here, we delve into 20 of the best Gwen Stefani Songs, encompassing both her iconic work with No Doubt and her dynamic solo career, celebrating the tracks that have defined a generation.
Gwen Stefani in a black and white patterned outfit with bright red lips
20: Trapped In A Box
“Trapped In A Box,” No Doubt’s debut single released in 1992, offers a metaphorical commentary on television addiction. This track captures a band still in the process of defining its sonic identity. A melting pot of the group’s diverse influences, “Trapped In A Box” melds Eric Stefani’s signature 2-Tone ska rhythms with Gwen Stefani’s energetic vocal delivery and Tom Dumont’s spirited guitar solos. The result is an intentionally quirky and somewhat experimental piece, yet it served as an ideal showcase for their raw, unbridled stage presence and youthful exuberance. This early Gwen Stefani song provides a fascinating glimpse into the nascent stages of No Doubt’s evolution.
19: Early Winter
Gwen Stefani continued her exploration across genres and producer collaborations with The Sweet Escape, her 2006 album that followed the massively successful Love.Angel.Music.Baby. Amidst the minimalist, futuristic beats crafted by The Neptunes on tracks like “Yummy” and the Akon-infused doo-wop vibe of “The Sweet Escape,” “Early Winter” stands out as a return to Stefani’s strength in delivering confessional power-pop ballads. Co-written with Tim Rice-Oxley of Keane, this breakup song puts Stefani’s vocal range and emotional depth at the forefront. In response, she delivers a powerfully moving performance, making “Early Winter” one of the standout Gwen Stefani solo songs and a testament to her vocal prowess.
18: One More Summer
In the decade following No Doubt’s Rock Steady album, Gwen Stefani’s life took many exciting turns as she launched a successful fashion line, started a family, and built a thriving solo music career. When No Doubt reunited to create Push And Shove, it felt as though no time had elapsed. “One More Summer” sees them reconnecting with their Southern California ska roots while embracing their enduring affection for 80s pop sensibilities. This wistful breakup anthem resonates deeply, and the acoustic version, featured on the deluxe edition of the album, adds another layer of emotional intimacy, making it a gem among No Doubt songs.
17: I Throw My Toys Around
By 1998, No Doubt had become a consistent presence on movie soundtracks. Their contribution to The Rugrats Movie soundtrack provided them with the opportunity to collaborate with one of their musical heroes, Elvis Costello. “I Throw My Toys Around,” co-written by Costello and his former wife, Cait O’Riordan, is a quirky and memorable track. It artfully juxtaposes Tom Dumont’s edgy, scratchy guitar riffs against Gwen Stefani’s delicate, breathy vocals, all set to a nursery rhyme-like melody. Costello himself lends his distinctive vocals to the song, giving “I Throw My Toys Around” a sound reminiscent of an Elvis Costello and the Attractions B-side, and making it a unique entry in the list of Gwen Stefani songs.
16: Bathwater
Long before vocal effects became a standard tool in pop music production, Gwen Stefani had been experimenting with and mastering vocal manipulation, contorting her voice into a variety of warbles, coos, and shouts since No Doubt’s early days with “Trapped In A Box.” On “Bathwater,” a track infused with a ska flavor, she elevates her theatrical vocal approach even further. Singing about the metaphorical act of bathing in relationship baggage, Stefani delivers a performance that is both captivating and slightly unhinged, showcasing her unique vocal style within No Doubt’s diverse sound.
15: Rock Steady
After the introspective and somewhat psychological themes explored in Return To Saturn, Rock Steady marked No Doubt’s return to the upbeat reggae-ska sound that had been instrumental in their initial success. The album’s title track, “Rock Steady,” perfectly encapsulates this shift. It’s a laid-back dub-infused song that thematically ties the album together. Lyrically, Gwen Stefani takes a reflective look at relationships – both personal and within the band – that have endured challenges and remained resilient, ultimately staying “rock steady.” This track exemplifies the band’s ability to blend genres while maintaining lyrical depth, a hallmark of Gwen Stefani songs with No Doubt.
14: Running
Even on Rock Steady, an album largely characterized by its party-ready energy, No Doubt made space for sincere and heartfelt ballads. “Running,” inspired by the synth-pop sounds of Yazoo, is a prime example. Similar to the album’s title track, “Running” sees Gwen Stefani delving into the theme of long-term commitment in relationships, shifting the focus from the initial excitement of new love to the endurance and dedication required to go the distance. This mature songwriting is complemented by a memorable synth riff that ensures the song’s lasting appeal and makes it a standout among No Doubt songs.
13: Hey Baby
“Hey Baby” amplifies the celebratory atmosphere of Rock Steady with its infectious dancehall beat and a guest appearance from Jamaican dancehall artist Bounty Killer, adding an authentic touch to the track. As the sole female member of No Doubt, Gwen Stefani uses “Hey Baby” to offer a glimpse into the backstage world of touring, narrating the lively and often chaotic antics she witnesses. Her vocals create a playful call-and-response dynamic within the song. Released as a single, “Hey Baby” achieved Top 10 success, becoming No Doubt’s most significant hit since their chart-topping breakthrough, “Don’t Speak,” in 1996, highlighting its status as one of the most popular Gwen Stefani songs from her No Doubt era.
12: Ex-Girlfriend
“Ex-Girlfriend,” like many of the best Gwen Stefani songs, is a testament to her impressive stylistic range, seamlessly blending punk, hip-hop, and rock elements into a cohesive and energetic track. Reflecting the turbulent emotions of a scorned ex-lover, the song’s dynamic structure mirrors emotional volatility, moving from moments of restraint to explosive bursts of roaring guitars and an anthemic, singalong chorus. The anime-inspired music video, directed by Hype Williams, further cemented the song’s impact, becoming a staple on MTV and enhancing its recognition as a quintessential Gwen Stefani track.
11: What You Waiting For?
Throughout her career, both with No Doubt and in her solo endeavors, Gwen Stefani has consistently used each album cycle as an opportunity to take stock of her personal and professional life. Her solo debut was no exception, marked by the introspective yet empowering “What You Waiting For?”. Collaborating with Linda Perry of 4 Non Blondes, Stefani confronts creative blocks and self-doubt head-on. This dance-pop hit serves as a metaphorical and literal kick-start, urging herself (and listeners) to overcome hesitation and pursue their passions, making it a powerful and relatable Gwen Stefani solo song.
10: Hollaback Girl
Whether you love it or find it grating, the cultural impact and staying power of Gwen Stefani’s massive solo hit, “Hollaback Girl,” are undeniable. Channeling Toni Basil’s energetic spirit, Gwen fires back at her critics with an assertive and playful track. Featuring a chorus of hypewomen and a memorable cheerleader chant, “Hollaback Girl” soared to the top of the charts and became one of the most instantly recognizable Gwen Stefani songs of all time. Its catchy and confrontational nature cemented its place in pop culture history.
Gwen Stefani in a black and white patterned outfit with bright red lips
9: New
“New” stands out from the rest of No Doubt’s Return To Saturn album with its edgy new wave sound. Originally crafted for the 1999 cult teen film Go, which explored LA rave culture, the song has a distinct energy. Produced by former Talking Heads member Jerry Harrison, “New” highlights No Doubt’s musical prowess, driven by the formidable rhythm section of bassist Tony Kanal and drummer Adrian Young. Gwen Stefani’s urgent vocals are delivered over skittering synths, resulting in a track that showcases the band’s versatility and willingness to experiment beyond their ska roots, making it a noteworthy Gwen Stefani song.
8: Underneath It All
While Gwen Stefani was known for her energetic stage presence and ska-infused performances with No Doubt, she also possessed a remarkable talent for delivering melodic pop hits that could evoke deep emotion. “Underneath It All,” from the Rock Steady album, is a perfect example of this. Co-written with Dave Stewart of Eurythmics, the song incorporates authentic island vibes, enriched by a feature from Jamaican reggae and dancehall star Lady Saw and production from reggae legends Sly & Robbie. This blend of pop sensibility with reggae influences created a unique and captivating sound, making “Underneath It All” a standout Gwen Stefani song.
7: Spiderwebs
As the opening track of No Doubt’s seminal album Tragic Kingdom, “Spiderwebs” effectively sets the stage for the themes of relationship turmoil and emotional complexity that permeate the record. Another collaborative songwriting effort between Gwen Stefani and Tony Kanal, “Spiderwebs” is remarkably catchy despite its subject matter – the anxieties and frustrations of phone-stalking or, as Stefani describes it, “a telephonic invasion.” The song’s energetic ska-punk rhythm and relatable lyrics about relationship anxieties resonated widely, making it a defining track from Tragic Kingdom and a quintessential Gwen Stefani song.
6: It’s My Life
No Doubt’s affinity for new wave music is as apparent as their love for reggae and ska, influences they openly embraced throughout their career. Their unabashed admiration for bands like Duran Duran and Pet Shop Boys was evident from their mainstream breakthrough with “Just A Girl.” Their faithful cover of Talk Talk’s 1984 single “It’s My Life” not only did justice to the UK pop-auteurs’ classic but arguably introduced Mark Hollis’s timeless song to a new generation of listeners eager for fresh sounds. No Doubt’s rendition became a hit in its own right, proving their skill in reinterpreting and revitalizing iconic tracks and further showcasing the breadth of Gwen Stefani songs.
5: Just A Girl
While Gwen Stefani may not have identified directly with the riot grrrl movement, she undeniably crafted one of the most enduring and impactful feminist rock anthems with “Just A Girl.” Initially, she employs a deliberately saccharine and almost stereotypical “girlish” vocal tone to emphasize the societal expectations of female helplessness. However, this quickly gives way to a powerful vocal release, transforming “Just A Girl” into a potent statement of female empowerment. This masterful dynamic makes it not only one of the best No Doubt songs but also arguably the best Gwen Stefani solo song, given its enduring message and impact.
4: Cool
Seen as a spiritual successor to “Don’t Speak,” “Cool” demonstrated Gwen Stefani’s continued mastery of reflective pop songwriting, the very style that propelled No Doubt to stardom. Even after their romantic breakup, the musical chemistry between Stefani and Tony Kanal remained palpable and potent. “Cool” explores the complexities of maintaining a friendship after a romantic relationship ends, navigating the delicate balance of past intimacy and present boundaries. The song’s emotional maturity and melodic richness highlight Stefani’s ability to evolve as a songwriter while retaining the poignant honesty that defines her best work, making it a standout Gwen Stefani solo song.
3: Simple Kind Of Life
In 2001, the rock music scene might not have been fully prepared for a concept album delving into themes of insecurity and concerns about biological clocks, but Return To Saturn has aged remarkably well, largely due to tracks like “Simple Kind Of Life.” Like many of the best Gwen Stefani songs, “Simple Kind Of Life” is characterized by its sincere display of vulnerability set against catchy pop-rock hooks. The song bravely tackles the specific female dilemma of balancing artistic independence with the societal and personal pressures of starting a family. Gwen Stefani approaches this complex theme with both sensitivity and strength, creating a deeply resonant and relatable track.
2: Sunday Morning
When it comes to breakup albums, Tragic Kingdom is undoubtedly among the best, offering a treasure trove of both tortured and brilliantly bitter pop gems, with “Sunday Morning” being a prime example. From the moment Adrian Young’s thunderous drum solo kicks in, the song ignites with energy, transforming Gwen Stefani into a snarling and assertive frontwoman. Her vocal performance is nothing short of powerhouse, conveying raw emotion and fierce independence. “Sunday Morning” captures the tumultuous feelings of heartbreak and resilience, solidifying its place as one of the most dynamic and powerful Gwen Stefani songs.
1: Don’t Speak
Consider this a silver lining of heartbreak: a seven-year relationship ends dramatically, but from that emotional upheaval emerges one of the most enduring rock ballads of the 90s, propelling your band to international superstardom. “Don’t Speak” is that song. It showcases Gwen Stefani’s lyrical depth and features her most intensely impassioned vocal performance to date. Following its phenomenal success and Stefani’s rapidly rising profile, “Don’t Speak” also became a metaphor for the increasingly strained dynamic within No Doubt, a subtext expertly explored in the song’s iconic music video. “Don’t Speak” remains not only the best Gwen Stefani song but also a defining anthem of the 90s, encapsulating heartbreak and resilience in a way that continues to resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.
Gwen Stefani in a black and white patterned outfit with bright red lips
Are there any other Gwen Stefani or No Doubt songs you think deserve to be on this list? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
