After emerging as one of rock's coolest frontwomen, No Doubt's Gwen Stefani launched her incredibly successful and critically acclaimed solo career with Love. Angel. Music. Baby., an '80s homage with a resolutely modern edge that spawned six hit singles. Capitalizing on its success, Stefani quickly released her follow-up The Sweet Escape, which included the titular hit single featuring Akon. Stefani's innovative turn as a solo popstar paved the way for other singular pop divas.