Gwen Stefani made a triumphant return to the American Music Awards stage on Monday night, delivering a powerhouse medley that celebrated both her iconic past and vibrant present. The performance, held on the 20th anniversary of her debut solo album Love. Angel. Music. Baby., was a nostalgic and emotional journey for fans—and a reminder that Stefani remains a force in pop music.
Kicking things off with the anthemic “Hollaback Girl,” Stefani had the crowd on their feet, her signature style and swagger in full display. The medley flowed seamlessly into “The Sweet Escape,” another fan favorite that showcased her vocal agility and playful stage presence. But the most poignant moment came when she transitioned into “Swallow My Tears,” a standout track from her latest album Bouquet, released just last November. The shift in tone revealed the evolution of Stefani’s artistry—still bold, but now deeply introspective.
Ahead of her performance, Stefani had been building anticipation on social media, posting throwback clips from her past AMA appearances—including her 2005 win—and sharing rehearsal footage set to “Wind It Up.” Her return was not just a celebration of the past, but a reaffirmation of her continued relevance in the pop world.
The night was filled with big names and even bigger performances. Host Jennifer Lopez brought her usual sparkle, while legends like Janet Jackson and Rod Stewart added depth and legacy to the event. Blake Shelton, Stefani’s husband, also took the stage, making the evening a family affair. Other performers included Lainey Wilson, Benson Boone, Gloria Estefan, and Reneé Rapp.
Kendrick Lamar led the night with 10 nominations, with Post Malone close behind at eight. Newcomers Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, and Shaboozey each scored seven nominations, adding fresh energy to the show’s competitive lineup.
Fittingly held on Memorial Day, the ceremony also honored U.S. troops and veterans through stirring tributes and special moments, anchoring the evening in gratitude and unity.
Broadcast live on CBS and streaming via Paramount+, the 2025 AMAs proved that Gwen Stefani’s star power hasn’t dimmed in two decades—it’s only grown more radiant.
