Simple Kind of Life

No Doubt

About Simple Kind of Life

"Simple Kind of Life" is a song written by Gwen Stefani for No Doubt's fourth album Return of Saturn (2000). The song contrasts Stefani's desire to settle down and start a family with her commitment to the band. It received positive reviews from music critics, who noted the song's somber melody and raw lyrics. "Simple Kind of Life" was released as the album's second single in June 2000 (see 2000 in music, also "New" is a single from a soundtrack). It became the most successful American single from Return of Saturn, but had little international success. The accompanying music video illustrates the song's themes of marriage and family. 


Year:
2000
4:16
221 

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For a long time I was in love
Not only in love, I was obsessed
With a friendship that no one else could touch
It didn't work out, I'm covered in shells

And all I wanted was the simple things
A simple kind of life
And all I needed was a simple man
So I could be a wife

I'm so ashamed, I've been so mean
I don't know how it got to this point
I always was the one with all the love
You came along, I'm hunting you down

Like a sick domestic abuser looking for a fight
And all I wanted was the simple things
A simple kind of life

If we met tomorrow for the very first time
Would it start all over again?
Would I try to make you mine?

I always thought I'd be a mom
Sometimes I wish for a mistake
The longer that I wait, the more selfish that I get
You seem like you'd be a good dad

Now all those simple things are simply too complicated for my life
How'd I get so faithful to my freedom?
A selfish kind of life
When all I ever wanted was the simple things
A simple kind of life

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No Doubt

No Doubt is an American rock band from Anaheim, California, that formed in 1986. Since 1989 the group has consisted of vocalist Gwen Stefani, guitarist and keyboardist Tom Dumont, bassist and keyboardist Tony Kanal, and drummer Adrian Young. Since the mid-1990s in live performances, they have been supported by trumpeter Stephen Bradley and trombonist Gabrial McNair. more »

2 fans

Written by: Gwen Stefani

Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Release and Popularity
"Simple Kind of Life" was released in the year 2000 as the second single from No Doubt's fourth album, titled "Return of Saturn." The song was highly appreciated by fans and critics alike.
Billboard Rankings
Upon its release, the song reached the 38th spot on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart and got to the 14th place on the Modern Rock chart.
Songwriting
This was the first song for which Gwen Stefani, the band's lead vocalist, took sole credit for writing. It reflected her personal turmoil at the time and her wish for a simpler, more traditional life.
Music Video
The music video was directed by Sophie Muller, who has collaborated with the band on many other videos. The video received a nomination for Best Cinematography at the 2001 MTV Video Music Awards.
Theme and Lyrics
The song's lyrics revolve around Stefani's desires to settle down, start a family, and lead a simple life. It was inspired by her relationship with Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale.
Live Performances
No Doubt performed "Simple Kind of Life" live at the 2000 Billboard Music Awards, where they also received the Modern Rock Artist of the Year award.
Song Interpretation
The song reflects Gwen's inner battle between her rock star career ambitions and a desire for a husband and kids.
Commercial Success
Despite its lower chart position compared to their other singles, "Simple Kind of Life" remains one of No Doubt's most well-known songs. It was particularly successful in Canada, where it peaked at No. 2 on the charts.
Music Style
The song is noted for its soft rock and pop rock style. Its tempo and melody contrast with the band's earlier, more energetic ska punk sound.
Critic Review
The song received positive reviews from music critics. Many praised Stefani's revealing and personal lyrics, as well as the band's move towards a more mature sound.
Album Success
"Return of Saturn", the album that "Simple Kind of Life" is a part of, was nominated for the Best Rock Album at the 43rd Grammy Awards.
Personal Life
The themes and desires Gwen expressed in "Simple Kind of Life" eventually came true. She married Gavin Rossdale in 2002 and they have three children together, although they divorced in 2016.

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    Simple Kind of Life

    16.1M
    69,273     1,945

    Top Hot 100 Songs 2000

    Billboard #38


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