Gwen Stefani’s last-released solo album, “The Sweet Escape,” featuring Akon in 2006, went off the charts and received praise from her loyal fans. Her two most known solo hits,  “Rich Girl” and “Hollaback Girl,” were written for her album “Love Angel Music Baby.” After announcing that a new single had yet to come out, Gwen Stefani fans filled themselves with hopes of hearing a new and improved song similar to “Hollaback Girl.”

Stefani’s newest song, “Baby Don’t Lie,” co-written by American rapper Benny Blanco and OneRepublic’s lead singer, Ryan Tedder, came out on October 20, 2014.

The song’s first few handclap-heavy seconds gives off the same energy that “Hollaback Girl” did. Its first soaring beats mellow out into a mid-tempo pop ballad. In “Baby Don’t Lie,” Stefani sings about wanting a “love that is stronger.” Her unique vocals and signature yelp-like breaks in her voice help set the cheerful mood of the song.

Music genres in the past decade heavily reflect the electronic era, whereas a few decades ago most songs were comprised of raunchy guitar riffs and acoustic instruments. This new song fits perfectly into what mainstream listeners and pop critics now favor due to its empowering beat and electronic feel. Stefani managed to maintain her reggae-tinted sound in “Baby Don’t Lie” as well as incorporate an upbeat musical melody that will leave you humming its lyrics.

“Baby Don’t Lie” does not include guitar tracks, grinding bass notes or synchronized harmonies. Its mash of horns and beats makes it fairly difficult to pinpoint any strings. The song does not venture far from her other hit singles. However, Gwen pulls away from “rowdy” and incorporates her Caribbean roots, which can be detected in its cheerful flow. Although it has not had time to infect society like her previous hits, it has potential to reach the top of the charts.

According to idolator.com, the Wall Street Journal was not impressed by Stefani’s new song. They said, “Those who have obsessed over recent Rihanna hits will find comfort in the music within, but overall, the No Doubt frontwoman doesn’t sound too inspired here.”

MuuMuse, on the other hand, said, “this one might not be nearly as much of a game-changer, but it does represent the fact that Gwen’s still got it — she always did — and her comeback has never felt more crucial. Welcome home, mama.”