Gwen Stefani | Source: Getty Images
The 2025 American Music Awards (AMA) made a high-profile return, blending nostalgic nods with bold, theatrical performances. Among the standout moments was Gwen Stefani’s set, which began with her latest single, “Swallow My Tears,” and shifted into an upbeat performance of her 2006 hit, “Sweet Escape.”
Her introduction by husband and country star Blake Shelton added a warm, personal layer to the spectacle.
Stefani’s performance embraced theatrical flair. Dressed in a pastel pink romper with ruffled edges, lace sleeves, icy blue bows, and crystal embellishments, she stood at the center of a vibrant, candy-colored set. Her platinum blonde hair, styled in a dramatic vintage wave, added to the retro-fantasy aesthetic.
Surrounding her were dancers in coordinating baby doll outfits and black thigh-highs, while a brass band in red uniforms played behind illuminated golden panels, completing the visual spectacle.
While the staging was visually striking, public response to the performance was sharply divided. One viewer commented, “Respectfully…. what did I just watch…”
Another added, “Just wasted 2 hours of my time for the worst award show ever. Now I see why it’s been cancelled the past few years 
,” while someone else remarked, “That was some bad lip syncing.”
Still, not all reactions were critical. “BEST PERFORMANCE OF THE NIGHT,” one person declared.
