The iconic Jones Beach Theater was packed to the brim on June 9, 2004, as fans of No Doubt gathered for a night that promised ska-infused energy, pop brilliance, and rock-solid musicianship. The atmosphere was electric, with fans eagerly awaiting the arrival of Gwen Stefani and her bandmates. The crowd was a mix of diehard long-time fans and newer listeners, all buzzing with anticipation. As the opening lights danced across the stage and the first notes hit the air, it was clear that this would be a night to remember. The band’s charisma, combined with the iconic open-air venue, created the perfect backdrop for an evening of musical nostalgia and high-energy performance.
Full Setlist
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Just a Girl
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Spiderwebs
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Excuse Me Mr.
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Don’t Speak
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Hey Baby
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Running
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Sunday Morning
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Bathwater
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Simple Kind of Life
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Spiderwebs (Reprise)
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Hella Good
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Ex-Girlfriend
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End It On This
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Underneath It All
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Rock Steady
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Trapped in a Box
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Squeal
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Total Hate
Encore: -
It’s My Life
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Different People
The Energy
From the very first chords of “Just a Girl”, the audience erupted. Gwen Stefani’s stage presence was magnetic; she commanded attention effortlessly, flitting across the stage with a mix of punk attitude and pop polish. The band’s tight performance elevated every song, turning familiar hits into dynamic live experiences. Tony Kanal’s basslines thumped with precision, Tom Dumont’s guitar riffs cut sharp, and Adrian Young’s drumming anchored the energy, giving each song its proper punch.
Throughout the concert, the energy was consistently high. Fans sang every word, jumped along to every beat, and collectively created an unstoppable wave of enthusiasm. Tracks like “Spiderwebs” and “Hey Baby” turned the venue into a sea of movement, with everyone feeding off the band’s electric energy. No Doubt’s ability to keep the energy flowing without burnout was impressive, transitioning seamlessly between ska-punk bangers, heartfelt ballads, and infectious dance numbers.
Highlights & Crowd Moments
Certain songs stood out as particularly memorable moments. “Don’t Speak” brought a shift in the room’s energy, as fans collectively softened into a reverent hush, singing along in hushed voices. Gwen’s emotive performance made the ballad feel intimate despite the vastness of the outdoor venue. There was a palpable connection between the band and the audience during this number, a reminder of why No Doubt’s music resonates decades later.
“Hella Good” was a pure party anthem. The crowd bounced in unison, waving their hands and letting the band’s funky groove take over. Gwen’s interaction with fans during this segment, pointing to individuals and encouraging sing-alongs, made the audience feel like co-performers. Similarly, “Rock Steady” and “Underneath It All” showcased No Doubt’s versatility, blending reggae influences seamlessly into a rock-pop framework. The audience clearly appreciated the range, reacting with excitement to every stylistic pivot.
The encore was another standout. Opening with “It’s My Life”, the crowd exploded, everyone singing along to the anthem with pure joy. The band’s encore performance reminded everyone why No Doubt had earned such a devoted following. Gwen’s charisma and the band’s tight cohesion shone through, leaving the audience exhilarated as the night drew to a close.
The Vibe
The overall vibe of the concert was celebratory, fun, and engaging. No Doubt’s combination of ska punk, pop hooks, and rock sensibility created a multifaceted musical experience that kept the audience invested from start to finish. The open-air venue enhanced the energy, allowing the sound to carry beautifully across the beachside amphitheater. Visuals were clean and effective, emphasizing the band’s performance without distracting from the music.
Fans of all ages were present, some in 2004-era band tees, others newcomers discovering the band live for the first time. The inclusivity of the crowd added to the vibe—everyone was united by a shared love of the band and the music. The audience’s energy mirrored the band’s performance, creating a feedback loop of enthusiasm that only amplified the experience.
Tiny Quibbles
While the concert was nearly flawless, there were a few minor moments worth noting. A few transitions between songs felt a touch abrupt, slightly interrupting the otherwise seamless flow. Certain sections of the crowd were too far back to catch all of Gwen’s expressions and subtle stage movements, which slightly limited the visual intimacy. However, these small issues hardly detracted from the overall enjoyment and could easily be overlooked in a show of this caliber.
Final Thoughts
No Doubt’s performance at Jones Beach on June 9, 2004, was a masterclass in energy, showmanship, and audience connection. The band’s ability to deliver a set that was both nostalgic and fresh made the night unforgettable. Each song was performed with passion and precision, showcasing the band’s growth and versatility while staying true to the sound that made them iconic.
From the punk-driven energy of “Just a Girl” and “Spiderwebs” to the emotional resonance of “Don’t Speak”, and the infectious grooves of “Rock Steady”, every moment of the concert had something special. Gwen Stefani’s magnetic presence, combined with the band’s tight musicianship, created an experience that resonated long after the final encore notes faded.
As the crowd filed out of Jones Beach, there was a sense of collective satisfaction and elation. This wasn’t just a concert; it was a shared celebration of music, memory, and the enduring power of No Doubt’s catalog. Fans left with smiles, memories, and a renewed appreciation for a band that has proven, time and again, that their live performances are as vibrant and thrilling as their recorded work.
In every way, No Doubt delivered a performance worthy of their legendary status, making June 9, 2004, a night that attendees would remember for a lifetime. The combination of stellar musicianship, audience engagement, and setlist curation made the concert a high point of the summer season, cementing the band’s reputation as one of the most electrifying live acts of the early 2000s.