Pretenders

Where They’re From:

Hereford, UK

Who They Are:

The Pretenders are largely responsible for ushering in the sounds of 80’s rock and new wave. Led by singer Chrissie Hynde, the band broke big on arrival with their debut self-titled album. Centered around catchy, singable choruses and shimmering guitar lines inspired by 1960’s rock and roll, the LP went number one in the UK with hits such as “Brass in Pocket” and “Kid.” Their 1981 follow up, Pretenders II, received similar acclaim thanks to “Talk of the Town” and “Message of Love.” Despite a string of unfortunate deaths and subsequent lineup changes since then, the band has continued to release their timeless brand of dazzling jukebox joints, and was inducted into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005. 

Years Active:

1978-Present

Essential Albums:

Pretenders (1980), Pretenders II (1981), Learning to Crawl (1984)