Kevin Winter/Getty Images for iHeartRadio
Gwen Stefani’s latest album, “Bouquet,” faced a disappointing reception on the charts, selling just 13,000 copies.
The No Doubt lead singer released his fifth solo studio album last week.
On “Bouquet,” Stefani interweaves her musical journey, blending elements of her early punk music with her current artistic evolution.
While not strictly country, Stefani’s fifth album strikes a delicate balance that reflects her personal growth through a collection of songs that recount her transition.
Faced with the disappointing news, social media users had mixed reactions. One confused person asked why Stefani decided to abandon this new project instead of continuing with the same sound as her previous album.
I don’t understand why she released this album and not followed up the last one with a similar sound. She is famous for her off-the-wall, off-center style. Not country music. There’s a reason her first 3 solo albums were all #1 hits and this one debuted at #95 😢
– admire adora (@gloriousafflict) November 25, 2024
Another individual commented that despite the modest numbers, it was notable that she had a quarter of a decade of experience in an industry known for its bias against women over 30.
Yes, it’s not much, but mind you she is a woman in her mid-50s with over 25 years working in an industry that hates women after 30
She is the queen. I will definitely listen to the album 🩷
– Pako Salad (@pakosaladote) November 25, 2024
A third person quipped that perhaps Stefani should have distanced herself from her husband Blake Shelton’s influence.
I’m sorry Gwen, but you need to stay away from Blake Shelton’s lame country sounds
– Alef Santangelo (@AlefSantangelo) November 25, 2024
One social media user emphasized that Stefani has established her legacy and has nothing left to prove but said that her latest album may not be her most impressive work.
Music sales changed a lot when she was at her peak. Remember, she’s in her 50s, she’s already made her mark and certainly doesn’t need to prove it to anyone. BUT I will say, this album is not her best either
— 𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐎𝐍. (@mmitsANTON) November 25, 2024
This comes amid her surprise appearance on the Home Shopping Network two weeks ago, when she was trying to sell her album live on air.
The “Hollaback Girl” singer had a 30-minute conversation with host Nicole Hickl. The musical artist not only discussed the album but also included performances of new pre-recorded songs.
The unique approach to promoting the album has sparked a variety of reactions from her fan base, given the current landscape of streaming services.
I never want to hear another fandom complain about their favorite cause again. Gwen Stefani introduces her album on HSN. I was in TRENCHES because of this woman. pic.twitter.com/jtInnom6CK
– Love. angel. music. benji. (@benarmishaw) November 13, 2024
No one has endured more trials than those of us defending the music that was born right when she met Blake Shelton
– ll cøøl j (@beetlejordan) November 14, 2024
2 $7 payments for Gwen Stefani’s album are weird
– Joshua (@fearlessjosh13) November 15, 2024
Who else headlines Coachella and does it in the same year?? Iconic
– oh I don’t know (@nahnotrly) November 14, 2024
Tags Gwen Stefani, New Album