The night was electric. The Universal Amphitheatre was packed, the crowd buzzing with anticipation. As the lights dimmed and the first notes of “Just a Girl” filled the air, the audience erupted into cheers. No Doubt had returned to Los Angeles, and they were ready to deliver a performance that would leave an indelible mark on everyone in attendance.
The Opening Act: Phantom Planet
Before No Doubt took the stage, Phantom Planet warmed up the crowd with their infectious energy and catchy tunes. Their performance set the tone for the evening, getting everyone primed for the main event. Songs like “California” had the audience singing along, and their spirited set was a perfect lead-in to No Doubt’s headlining performance.
The Main Event: No Doubt Takes the Stage
As the band launched into “Just a Girl,” the crowd went wild. Gwen Stefani, dressed in her signature style, commanded the stage with her powerful vocals and charismatic presence. The band, tight as ever, delivered each song with precision and passion.
The setlist was a perfect blend of their greatest hits and fan favorites. “Excuse Me Mr.” followed, its ska-punk energy getting the crowd moving. “Ex-Girlfriend” brought a dose of attitude, with Gwen’s vocals cutting through the night air.
“Underneath It All” offered a moment of introspection, its reggae-infused rhythm providing a contrast to the high-energy tracks. “Hey Baby” had everyone dancing, its infectious beat impossible to resist.
“Bathwater” brought the tempo back up, its quirky lyrics and upbeat rhythm getting everyone moving. “Running” showcased the band’s versatility, with its introspective lyrics resonating with many in the audience.
“Simple Kind of Life” was a poignant moment, with Gwen’s voice cutting through the night air, delivering the song’s message with sincerity. “Hella Good” brought the energy back up, its infectious rhythm getting everyone on their feet.
“New” offered a moment of reflection, its introspective lyrics resonating with many in the audience. “Don’t Speak” was a standout, with the crowd singing along to every word, creating a sea of voices that filled the venue.
“It’s My Life,” a cover of the Talk Talk classic, was a fun and unexpected addition, showcasing the band’s eclectic influences. “Just a Girl” closed out the main set, its punk energy and feminist message resonating with the crowd, leaving everyone energized and ready for more.
The Encore: A Perfect Conclusion
The encore began with “Rock Steady,” the title track from their 2001 album. The song’s infectious rhythm had the crowd dancing and clapping along. “Stand and Deliver,” a cover of the Adam and the Ants song, was a fun and unexpected addition, showcasing the band’s eclectic influences.
“Sunday Morning” brought the night to a close with its mellow vibe and reflective lyrics. The band’s performance was heartfelt, and the crowd responded with appreciation, giving them a well-deserved ovation.
Final Thoughts
No Doubt’s performance at the Universal Amphitheatre was a testament to their enduring talent and ability to connect with their audience. The setlist was a perfect blend of their hits, deep cuts, and covers, showcasing their versatility and musical range. The band’s energy was infectious, and Gwen Stefani’s charisma and stage presence were undeniable.
As I left the venue, still buzzing from the music and the atmosphere, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experience. It was a night of great music, great company, and great memories—a night that solidified No Doubt’s place as one of the most dynamic and engaging live acts of their generation.
Setlist – No Doubt, Universal Amphitheatre, Universal City, CA, June 29, 2004
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Just a Girl
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Excuse Me Mr.
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Ex-Girlfriend
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Underneath It All
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Hey Baby
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Bathwater
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Running
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Simple Kind of Life
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Hella Good
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New
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Don’t Speak
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It’s My Life (Talk Talk cover)
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Just a Girl
Encore:
14. Rock Steady
15. Stand and Deliver (Adam and the Ants cover)
16. Sunday Morning