 The song received generally positive reviews from contemporary music critics , though there was a negative response to Akon 's presence as a featured artist . " The Sweet Escape " was released as the album 's second single on December 19 , 2006 and was commercially successful in mainstream and adult contemporary markets . It reached the top 10 of most singles charts and topped the New Zealand Singles Chart . The song was nominated for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals at the 50th Grammy Awards . In the song 's accompanying music video , Stefani attempts to escape from a golden prison . 
