Emotional Gwen Stefani left ‘shaking’ after watching surprise video message from ska legend

Virgin Radio

20 Jun 2023, 08:10

Gwen Stefani struggled to hold back tears during The One Show after being blindsided by a video message from one of her biggest inspirations. 

The former No Doubt singer hopped on the BBC evening show on Monday (19th June) ahead of her BST Hyde Park show supporting P!nk this weekend. 

While on the famous sofa, The One Show hosts Alex Jones and Jermaine Jenas asked Gwen about her influences in music. 

The Sweet Escape hitmaker explained: “My older brother was bringing home music. The first record was Madness, and that got us into all ska music, and The Selecter with Pauline Black. She was really the only girl that was out there in that scene. 

“Everything about my style was taken from her because her style was so extreme. So definitely a huge fan, I wouldn’t be me without The Selecter.”

Already a little bit teary at discussing her major influences, Gwen was then shocked when Alex admitted the team had been in touch with Pauline, who left a sweet message for her. 

In her video, the On My Radio singer said: “I’m absolutely thrilled I’ve influenced you and your music, sending you lots of love my dear.”

Completely blown away by the love from one of her idols, Gwen said: “I’m going to cry right now. Zoom in, guys, because these are real tears. Woah, I’m shaking. I can’t believe that. That is incredible.

“She was my idol when I was 13 and it’s crazy. The music was very underground, we discovered it. I became a huge fan, never thinking I could come [to London] and then watch her talk to me on TV, that was weird.”

As previously mentioned, Gwen is in the capital as she’ll be opening up for fellow US chart-topper P!nk during BST Hyde Park this weekend. 

Speaking about the upcoming performances, she said in November: “I don't think I would ever be me without the incredible musical influences of the UK. I am so excited to be back! This is going to be an amazing show.”

Stefani premiered her Las Vegas residency shows back in 2020 alongside a compilation album, and will bring a setlist featuring some of her biggest hits and a stunning visual performance based on her residency to the UK.