I remember the night vividly—not just because it was one of the best concerts I’ve ever attended, but because I was absolutely buzzing from a couple of Guinnesses and Heinekens. The crowd was electric, the air was thick with anticipation, and I was laughing at the sheer joy of being there. It was a perfect summer evening at Nikon at Jones Beach Theater, and No Doubt was about to take us on a musical journey that would leave us all exhilarated and wanting more.
The Opening Act: Paramore
Before No Doubt graced the stage, Paramore set the tone with their high-energy performance. Hayley Williams, the fiery frontwoman, commanded the stage with her powerful vocals and infectious enthusiasm. Songs like “Misery Business” and “Crushcrushcrush” had the crowd jumping and singing along, creating an atmosphere of excitement that would carry through the night.
No Doubt Takes the Stage
As the lights dimmed and the first notes of “Spiderwebs” rang out, the crowd erupted. Gwen Stefani, dressed in her signature style, strutted onto the stage, exuding confidence and charisma. The band, tight as ever, launched into a set that spanned their impressive catalog, blending ska, punk, and pop in a way only No Doubt can.
The energy was palpable as they transitioned seamlessly into “Hella Good,” a track that had everyone dancing and grooving. The rhythm section, with Adrian Young on drums and Tony Kanal on bass, laid down a groove that was impossible to resist. Guitarist Tom Dumont added layers of texture, while Gwen’s vocals soared above it all.
A Journey Through Their Hits
The setlist was a masterclass in pacing and crowd engagement. “Underneath It All” brought a reggae-infused vibe, showcasing Gwen’s versatility as a vocalist. The crowd swayed along, caught up in the mellow groove. “Excuse Me Mr.” followed, its ska-punk energy reigniting the crowd’s enthusiasm.
“Ex-Girlfriend” was a standout, with its infectious chorus and relatable lyrics. The band played with intensity, and Gwen’s delivery was both raw and captivating. “Happy Now?” offered a moment of reflection, 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. “Bathwater” brought the tempo back up, its quirky lyrics and upbeat rhythm getting everyone moving.
The Unexpected Delight: “Guns of Navarone”
One of the most memorable moments of the night was the instrumental interlude of “Guns of Navarone.” The band showcased their musical prowess, delivering a performance that was both intricate and powerful. It was a testament to their musicianship and ability to captivate the audience without uttering a single word.
The Crowd’s Favorite: “Don’t Speak”
As the opening chords of “Don’t Speak” began, the crowd went wild. This anthem of heartbreak and defiance had everyone singing along, creating a sea of voices that filled the venue. Gwen’s emotive performance brought the song to life, and the band’s tight arrangement made it a highlight of the evening.
A Nod to the Classics: “It’s My Life” and “Just a Girl”
The band paid homage to their influences with a cover of Talk Talk’s “It’s My Life.” They infused it with their unique style, making it their own while honoring the original. “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 Nikon at Jones Beach Theater 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, Nikon at Jones Beach Theater, Wantagh, NY, June 27, 2009
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Spiderwebs
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Hella Good
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Underneath It All
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Excuse Me Mr.
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Ex-Girlfriend
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Happy Now?
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Simple Kind of Life
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Bathwater
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Guns of Navarone (Instrumental Interlude)
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Hey Baby
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New
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Running
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End It on This
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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:
17. Rock Steady
18. Stand and Deliver (Adam and the Ants cover)
19. Sunday Morning