The other day on the streets of Manhattan I saw a sign advertising Gavin Rossdale's new album. Who, you may ask, is Gavin Rossdale? You might know him by his married name: Mr. Gwen Stefani. Back in the dark days of the 1990's, Gavin was actually more famous than his now-wife; he was the lead singer of a band called Bush. They had a few unlistenable hits. (Actually, they were pretty popular, but not really my thing.) Then he married Gwen, who has gone from being the lead singer of No Doubt to a world-wide superstar of the kind not seen since Madonna.
When I saw the poster, I thought to myself, I wonder if he gets annoyed about the fact that his wife is sooo much more successful than he is. I mean, people have busted my chops (usually in a good natured way) about the fact that my wife brings home more pastrami (we're Jewish, so we don't eat much bacon) than I do. In truth, it doesn't bother me. I'd be lying if I said I had never once felt a little funny about the reversal of traditional roles, but its pretty rare and not terribly serious. Besides, um, I get to stay home. So I was curious whether Mr. Stefani was equally enlightened.
Well, there are problems, but not exactly the kind I described. Gwen is reportedly annoyed at her hubby for going out on tour to promote his new record rather than staying home with the rug rats, current and pending (Gwen is about to give birth). See, she has put her career on hold for the moment, and doesn't understand why her husband can't do the same.
Gwen (she lets me call her Gwen – no, she doesn't), I'm going to tell you why. Because he feels completely emasculated. You are one of the biggest stars EVER. Who knows if it will last but you've completely surpassed any musical success that he has ever known, not only with No Doubt but also as a solo artist. You made a clothing line. You have Japanese backup dancers who follow you everywhere. You think he doesn't want that (especially the backup dancers)? Let him go out on the road. See if Gavin can change his schedule a bit so he's at home more often while the kids are still little, and maybe he can play some dates near where you live when you get close to your due date.
And Gavin? Get over yourself. You had your shot, you did OK, but what're you, Bob Dylan? Yes, you're "the man". But it's not 1952. You are married to an incredibly hot and talented woman who has made a pile of dough. Enjoy it. Plus, being around for the birth of your child, even the second or third time, is a great thing.
In other words: talk to each other, figure out a way that Gavin can do whatever promotion he has to do, and still be there when the baby is born.
Gwen. Gavin. If you want to talk, you know where to find me.
image: Star.com
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