Rolling Stone (May 30th 1996)

Raves: Gwen Stefani’s Picks

The No Doubt singer’s favorites, from Muppets to Madness

David Bowie/The Go-Go’s/Madness
Anaheim Stadium, Anaheim, Calif. (1983) 

My brother got to go, but my dad said I was too young. I cried myself to sleep on the couch because Madness is my favorite band of all time. The next thing I know, my mom put the phone on my ear, and it was my dad saying, “Are you too tired to go to the concert? I got tickets.” I was mesmerized by Madness. I don’t even think I watched the other bands.

The Sound of Music 

That whole soundtrack is really special to my heart. I probably sing “These Are a Few of My Favorite Things” at least twice a week in my head.

Disneyland
Anaheim, Calif. 

It is the Happiest Place on Earth, but it’s corrupt. Since we’re from Anaheim, we got to play the Disneyland graduation party for the new employees. To be able to say, “We played in front of ‘It’s A Small World,’ ” is pretty intense.

Rear Window 
Directed by Alfred Hitchcock 

I loved Grace Kelly in that movie. She wears this dress that has a black velvet top with a white skirt. For my prom dress I made my mom make me one exactly like it.

“Rainbow Connection” 

It’s the banjo and the words. When I think of it, I get shivers. I love The Muppet Movie. It’s that story – “I’m gonna make it” – and they do. That’s my favorite story.

Beverly Hills, 90210 

We got offered to be a band on the show, but we’re not gonna do it – it’s too cheesy. I’m putting the fax of the offer in my scrapbook, though. It was gonna be us playing for the – what’s the buff guy’s name with the blond hair? Fraternity guy. It’s his 21st birthday – yeah, right. He’s like probably 35.

Shirley Temples 

Just 7 Up with grenadine and cherries. I’m totally a goody-good, I have to admit. I’m trying hard to become an alcoholic to fit into this whole rock & roll scene. I’m learning how to drink beer. I think I like Corona a little bit. I try really hard.