Photography by Jamie Nelson

It’s almost been 26 years since Gwen Stefani conquered the industry as part of No Doubt with their acclaimed third studio album, Tragic Kingdom, which subsequently became one of the biggest-selling albums in history. Since then, the icon has cemented her place as one of the most influential acts in pop with a string of timeless anthems such as ‘Let Me Blow Ya Mind’ (with Eve), ‘What You Waiting For?’, ‘Rich Girl’, ‘Cool’, ‘The Sweet Escape’ and ‘Hollaback Girl’; the latter of which historically became the first single to top one million digital downloads.

Despite her continued success (she just scored two country number ones in the US and won the latest season of The Voice), Gwen is using her new era to remind audiences that she’s still here, and she’s the same old rocker who dominated the radio with 1995’s feminist anthem, ‘Just a Girl’. With her infectious new single, ‘Let Me Reintroduce Myself’, the Grammy-winner pays homage to her ska roots and playfully toys with the notion of a comeback. Just FYI: this isn’t a comeback. Got it?

For the latest edition of 15 Minutes with an Icon, we spoke with Gwen over Zoom about her long-awaited new era, the impact of her beloved debut solo album, Love. Angel. Music. Baby., and why she feels “honoured” for the decades-long support from the LGBTQ+ community. 

Gwen Stefani! It’s bloody lovely to meet you.

It’s lovely to meet you! Where are you at?!

I’m currently in a little place called Devon in the UK. Do you know it?

Is it by the sea?

Yes!

Oh phew! I was like, ‘I think I know…’ I’m so embarrassed that I don’t know more! I’ve been going to the UK forever but that part of my brain just doesn’t function as well, like… geography. I miss England so much! I really do.

You’d love it here, there’s lots of country-esque landscapes, farms and seas…

Now that I’ve gone country, I’d really love it!