Rossdale strays from 'Angry Guy' days

Staying grounded: Now living in Southern California, Gavin Rossdale is doing his best to avoid battles with paparazzi. (Courtesy photo)

SAN FRANCISCO — The equation always comes down to predator and prey.

“Even when you’re going out to the market, early in the morning with your family, you really don’t want to go to the market,” says photogenic U.K. rocker Gavin Rossdale, who — along with wife Gwen Stefani and their sons Kingston and Zuma — has become a prime target for paparazzi in his new home: Hollywood.

“Because with a herd of photographers following you, it’ll turn into a big scene like some bad reality show. It can be, umm, a bit invasive,” he says.

Overly protective of his clan, the singer — who plays San Francisco on Tuesday — admits he used to be more combative with photographers.

“But it turns into the same kind of picture, every time — ‘Angry Guy,’” he says.

“So what are you going to do? I’m not going to let it get to me. And the guys that follow us regularly are actually pretty good guys — it’s just that that’s how they make their living. And besides, with all of the awful things happening in the world right now, the idea of celebrities complaining about the paparazzi just seems a little churlish.”

This same thoughtful, zenlike outlook has permeated Rossdale’s work since “Sixteen Stone,” his 1994 debut with his old outfit Bush.

It continued through his recent group Institute and then to “Wanderlust,” his literate new solo set for Interscope.

He rationalizes fame with “Another Night In the Hills,” decries war on “If You’re Not With Us, You’re Against Us” and treasures his family in “Frontline.”

Ironically, a ballad touching on troubles from his seven-year marriage, “Love Remains the Same,” has become a Top 40 smash for the otherwise private artist.

“The world is exciting, but also selfish and terrifying,” is Rossdale’s theory. “So there’s a real nice balance, and we just wade through it. But having children certainly removes you from being the most important person in your life, especially if you have sons. There’s something quite anthropological about the idea of them gaining strength through their lives and achievements as you gradually lose yours. But hey — that’s how it goes. Being a father is an interesting path."

So is being an actor. Rossdale, 41, has had fun with his suave image in films such as “Constantine,” where he portrayed the devilish villain Balthazar, who shatters into charred shards at the end.

“It’s always quite curious to see yourself turn into rubble,” he laughs.

Yet flying solo — like the paparazzi — has required some adjustment, Rossdale says. “I’m still cringing when I hear my name on the radio. But I think I’ll get used to it.”

IF YOU GO
 

Gavin Rossdale

When: 8 p.m. Tuesday
Where: The Fillmore, 1805 Geary Blvd., S.F.
Tickets: $32.50 to $40.60
Contact: www.livenation.com