Gwen Stefani is the fashion-icon, sex symbol, lead singer of ultra-successful ska/rock group No Doubt. She has enjoyed success with the band for over a decade and in 2004 she decided to take time out from being a rock chick to record a solo album. Often known to be a trendsetter Stefani first released her own clothing range L.A.M.B and then toward the end of 2004 she released her debut album, also entitled L.A.M.B. The record displayed Stefani's playful nature and tendency to try something new and original. The lead single What You Waiting For? was a great example of the frenetic genius that fans have come to expect from Stefani. The single debuted at number 2 in the UK and was a firm radio favourite for months afterwards. The album originally entered the UK charts at number 16 but has progressively improved performance following the success of the singles Rich Girl and Hollaback Girl. Both of these songs are further examples of Stefani's genius. Rich Girl was a hip-hop influenced track featuring rapper Eve and using a sample from Fiddler On The Roof whilst Hollaback Girl was a cheerleader chant over a dull Neptunes produced beat.

It is Stefani's fearless desire to try new things that has won her the huge fanbase that she enjoys today. She is a true icon. There is nobody like her and there probably never will be again. Her preoccupation with Harajuku fashion led to her clothing line. The name of the clothing line and her album is a combination of her four favourite words - Love, Angel, Music, Baby. Gwen is almost like a one woman mission to show the music buying public that music can still be fun. Her album showcases lots of sounds and at points recalls early Madonna. She collaborates with everyone from Andre 3000 to her No Doubt bandmates through to New Order. The album is a perfect collection of pop gems and showcases Stefani's unmistakeable vocals.

Stefani plans to release a fourth single from L.A.M.B and then has her sight set on a US tour. She has also revealed that her next solo album will be out before the year is out. Somehow she has also found time to star in Hollywood movies and have a private life with husband Gavin Rossdale (the lead singer of rock band Bush).

Gwen and Gavin currently live in the UK and despite the huge success that Gwen is enjoying with her solo record she does plan to get back together with No Doubt in 2006 to record their next studio album. Some wonder why she is bothering but it's good to see a girl that doesn't discard her roots in favour of her own solo dreams. All hail the new queen of pop!

Visit Gwen Stefani's Official site for more info.