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The Bottom Line

With the third release, Gwen Stefani gives wide exposure to the best song from her album The Sweet Escape. The song was co-written and produced by No Doubt bandmate Tony Kanal. Stefani's relationship with Kanal was the inspiration for her previous hit "Cool." Reflecting on and working with Tony Kanal seems to bring out the best in Gwen Stefani. This is a bittersweet ballad that will be remember as one of her best.

Listen to "4 in the Morning"

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Pros

• Gentle, wistful ballad feel
• Sensitive, emotional lyrics

Cons

• Gwen's voice is a bit thin

Description

• Light keyboard runs tie the song together from intro through break
• Sweet, sensual vocals that gently soar in the choruses
• Midtempo beat perfect for a slow dance

Guide Review - Gwen Stefani - 4 in the Morning

Gwen Stefani has certainly turned her second solo album project The Sweet Escape around in public perception after the initial negative reception for the ill-fated first single "Wind It Up.". Now, the 3rd single "4 in the Morning" is not only likely to give her a 5th top 10 solo single but also boost her album sales. "4 in the Morning" is a wistful ballad of a relationship on the edge beautifully performed and produced.

Kicking off with beautiful keyboard runs before settling into a gentle midtempo beat, Gwen Stefani allows her signature vocals to sensually float and glide through the lyrical content. The song wisely ignores flashy touches in favor of a gentleness which will make it perfect slow dance and evening radio fare.