Eric Kennedy, a food science sophomore, wakes up to the image of Gwen Stefani smiling at him every morning.
A No Doubt poster collector, Kennedy has followed her band since their 1995 mainstream album “Tragic Kingdom,” but is now one of many fans who fear the release of Stefani’s solo debut.
“I really like Gwen Stefani, but I feel that her solo career may be a mistake,” Kennedy said. “She has become popular with her band and I just hope she doesn’t fail when she goes solo like so many other artists have.”
In an interview in this month’s Vogue, Stefani talks briefly about the direction her life is going, including her solo album.
Stefani has always had her own projects outside of the band. Besides auditioning for motion picture roles and designing with her own clothing line, L.A.M.B., the singer is attempting to strike gold on her own.
After her band’s last album, “Rock Steady,” Stefani told Vogue she has been getting songs together for her “dance album.”
Adrienne Pere, a secondary education senior, believes Stefani proved she can shift genres at will.
“She’s very versatile,” Pere said. “I think she could do anything she wants. She has an incredible voice and always had her own identity aside from No Doubt, and that’s why I imagine she’ll be really successful with her album.”
Stefani might be going solo for her next album, but she will have plenty of help.
Her album will include Andre 3000 from OutKast, Missy Elliot, and ex-boyfriend and No Doubt bassist, Tony Kanal.
In the past, Gwen has worked with Moby on his song “Southside” and on Eve’s hit single “Blow Ya Mind,” singing the hook for both artists, while helping create an audience outside her No Doubt fans.
“Her past collaborations have been great,” Kennedy said. “I really have enjoyed all the songs she has done with other artists.”
Pere is not afraid of the change.
“I think it’s cool,” Pere said. “She’s a very versatile vocalist and I think she’ll do well solo. She’s had a lot of musical experience and this is just another notch in the ladder.”
However, Kennedy does not share the same enthusiasm.
“I like Gwen Stefani because she has a voice that is different then most female singers in the industry,” Kennedy said. “Not only that, her band is a mix of rock and ska, which is very unique from most groups that are out there. Also, she is hot.”
Another pressing concern for fans is the fate of No Doubt as a band. No word has been given as to if Stefani will remain a solo artist.
“There has always kind of been a little tension in the band,” Pere said. “But I think that if they were a serious band that this solo project won’t be the end.”
Kennedy, in contrast, hopes she does not desert the band.
“I think she should not remain a soloist,” Kennedy said. “I think Gwen is great but I feel as though her band is helping make her what she is.”
On the No Doubt Web site, Stefani has not revealed what will be included on her CD, but she hopes to release a single as soon as this summer.