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Pretenders

Live Performances by Pretenders

  • In January 1979, during a significant period in their career, The Pretenders performed live in France, showcasing their energetic rock sound. This per... Read Full Description >

    In January 1979, during a significant period in their career, The Pretenders performed live in France, showcasing their energetic rock sound. This performance occurred shortly after the release of their self-titled debut album, "Pretenders," which came out in 1979 and featured hits such as "Brass in Pocket" and "Stop Your Sobbing." The band's blend of punk rock and new wave was gaining traction, and their distinctive style was being recognized in the music scene. Notably, Chrissie Hynde, the band's lead vocalist and principal songwriter, emerged as a powerful frontwoman, marking a pivotal moment in rock music with her unique presence and songwriting prowess. The live recording of "Tattooed Love Boys" exemplifies the band's raw energy and captures the early essence of their live performances, establishing them as a formidable force in the music industry.

The Pretenders - The Wait Live Performance at Alright Now Concert

Alright Now

January 1, 1980 | Video Length: 3:27
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  • In March 1980, The Pretenders were at a pivotal moment in their career, following the release of their self-titled debut album in January of the same ... Read Full Description >

    In March 1980, The Pretenders were at a pivotal moment in their career, following the release of their self-titled debut album in January of the same year. This album had already established them as a formidable force in the rock scene, thanks to hit singles like "Brass in Pocket" and "Kid." The live recording of "Up The Neck" from March 14, 1980, captures the band's raw energy and charisma during their early performances. This time period was significant for The Pretenders as they were gaining widespread acclaim and building a strong fanbase. Interestingly, shortly after this performance, they would experience tragedy with the loss of founding member James Honeyman-Scott, which would profoundly impact their subsequent work and evolution as a band. The energy captured in this live performance reflects a band on the cusp of major success while also foreshadowing the challenges that lay ahead.

The Pretenders - Live in Germany 1981 (Full Concert)

Germany

January 1, 1981 | Video Length: 1:20:36
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  • In January 1981, when the live recording of The Pretenders took place in Germany, the band was firmly establishing their reputation as a leading force... Read Full Description >

    In January 1981, when the live recording of The Pretenders took place in Germany, the band was firmly establishing their reputation as a leading force in the new wave and rock scenes. Before this performance, they had released their self-titled debut album in 1980, which included hits like "Brass in Pocket" and "Kid." This debut not only received critical acclaim but also commercial success, reaching high chart positions in multiple countries. The 1981 live show captures the band shortly after their rise to fame, showcasing their energetic blend of rock and punk influences. Notably, the original lineup featured charismatic frontwoman Chrissie Hynde, whose powerful vocals and stage presence were pivotal in the band's appeal. The recording illustrates The Pretenders at a peak moment, where they were transitioning from big singles to solidifying their identity in the increasingly competitive music landscape.

Pretenders Live Performance of 'Message of Love' on Fridays TV Show

Fridays TV Show Studio
Los Angeles, CA, United States

January 1, 1981 | Video Length: 4:01
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  • In January 1981, the Pretenders performed "Message of Love" on the television show 'Fridays,' a significant period in their career following the relea... Read Full Description >

    In January 1981, the Pretenders performed "Message of Love" on the television show 'Fridays,' a significant period in their career following the release of their second album, "Pretenders II," which came out in 1981. This live recording showcases the band's emerging prominence in the rock scene during the early 1980s, solidifying their reputation for energetic performances led by charismatic frontwoman Chrissie Hynde. Interestingly, the appearance on 'Fridays' featured the beloved comedian Andy Kaufman, adding an air of eccentricity to the event. The performance not only highlighted their hit single but also reflected the band's growing creative confidence, transitioning from their debut's initial success to becoming a staple in the New Wave music genre.

  • On July 17, 1981, during a live performance in Köln, Germany, the Pretenders showcased their energetic sound, fueled by their self-titled debut album... Read Full Description >

    On July 17, 1981, during a live performance in Köln, Germany, the Pretenders showcased their energetic sound, fueled by their self-titled debut album which had been released in 1980. This album featured hit singles such as "Brass in Pocket" and "Stop Your Sobbing," establishing the band as a prominent player in the rock scene. By the time of this live recording, the Pretenders were gaining significant traction, characterized by their blend of punk rock and new wave elements. Notably, lead singer Chrissie Hynde’s distinct voice and charismatic presence contributed to the band’s early success. The live performance of "Mystery Achievement," a standout track from their debut album, highlights the band's raw energy and musical prowess during this formative period, shortly before their second release, "Pretenders II," in 1981, which further solidified their legacy in rock music.

The Pretenders Full Concert at US Festival 1983

US Festival
United States

January 1, 1983 | Video Length: 1:10:35
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The Pretenders - My City Was Gone Live at the US Festival

US Festival
Devore, CA, United States

May 28, 1983 | Video Length: 4:32
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  • In May 1983, when the Pretenders performed "My City Was Gone" live at the US Festival, they were riding high on the success of their second album, "Pr... Read Full Description >

    In May 1983, when the Pretenders performed "My City Was Gone" live at the US Festival, they were riding high on the success of their second album, "Pretenders II," which had been released in 1981. By this time, the band had carved out a significant place in the rock landscape, showcasing their blend of new wave and punk influences. The performance at the festival highlighted not only the band's gritty sound but also the rock star charisma of lead singer Chrissie Hynde, who was known for her distinctive voice and strong stage presence. "My City Was Gone," a song reflecting Hynde's feelings about her hometown of Akron, Ohio, was later released as a single in 1982 and became one of the group's signature tracks, cementing their status in the 1980s music scene. This recording exemplifies the energy and rawness of live performances at the time, capturing a pivotal moment in the band's career.

Pretenders Perform 'Middle Of The Road' at Live Aid 1985

John F. Kennedy Stadium
Philadelphia, PA, USA

July 13, 1985 | Video Length: 4:13
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  • In July 1985, the Pretenders performed at Live Aid, an iconic event aimed at raising funds for Ethiopian famine relief, before a massive audience at J... Read Full Description >

    In July 1985, the Pretenders performed at Live Aid, an iconic event aimed at raising funds for Ethiopian famine relief, before a massive audience at John F. Kennedy Stadium in Philadelphia. At this point in their career, the Pretenders had just released their third studio album, "Learning to Crawl," in 1984, which marked a significant comeback for the band after the tragic loss of their founder and guitarist, James Honeyman-Scott, in 1982. The live recording of "Middle of the Road" captures the band's vibrant energy and resilience, showcasing their ability to connect with a large audience. Notably, lead singer Chrissie Hynde, known for her powerful stage presence and unique voice, further solidified her status as a prominent female figure in rock music during this performance. The band’s participation in Live Aid not only highlighted their continued relevance in the music scene but also their commitment to humanitarian efforts, embodying the spirit of the 1980s rock movement.

Pretenders Live Performance of 'Back On The Chain Gang' at Live Aid 1985

John F. Kennedy Stadium
Philadelphia, PA, USA

July 13, 1985 | Video Length: 3:36
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  • In July 1985, The Pretenders performed "Back On The Chain Gang" at Live Aid, a concert that became a significant moment not only for the band but also... Read Full Description >

    In July 1985, The Pretenders performed "Back On The Chain Gang" at Live Aid, a concert that became a significant moment not only for the band but also for the global humanitarian effort. Prior to this iconic performance, the band had released their acclaimed album "Learning to Crawl" in 1983, which re-established them in the music scene after the tragic loss of their original guitarist, James Honeyman-Scott, and showcased their resilience. The live performance at the historic event solidified their place in rock history, as they played before an audience of over 100,000 and millions watching globally. Notably, "Back On The Chain Gang" was a tribute to Honeyman-Scott, reflecting the band's ability to channel personal grief into powerful music. This performance marked a pivotal moment, bringing the band a renewed spotlight and further emphasizing the impact of their music beyond just entertainment, contributing to a global cause.

Pretenders Live Performance of 'Stop Your Sobbing' at Live Aid 1985

John F. Kennedy Stadium
Philadelphia, PA, USA

July 13, 1985 | Video Length: 1:58
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  • In July 1985, the Pretenders performed "Stop Your Sobbing" at the iconic Live Aid concert, a pivotal event aimed at raising funds for the Ethiopian fa... Read Full Description >

    In July 1985, the Pretenders performed "Stop Your Sobbing" at the iconic Live Aid concert, a pivotal event aimed at raising funds for the Ethiopian famine. At this time, the band had recently released their third studio album, "Learning to Crawl," in 1984, which marked a significant shift in their career following the tragic loss of their original guitarist, James Honeyman-Scott, in 1982. "Learning to Crawl" helped to rejuvenate their popularity, yielding hits such as "Middle of the Road" and "Back on the Chain Gang." The Live Aid performance in front of around 100,000 fans came at a moment when the band was re-establishing their presence in the music scene, showcasing their resilience and ability to connect with a larger audience. Notably, the band's participation in this historic concert demonstrated their commitment to social causes, alongside their musical endeavors, further solidifying their status as influential artists of the era.

The Pretenders - I'll Stand By You Live on The Tonight Show

Tonight Show with Jay Leno

January 1, 1994 | Video Length: 3:32
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  • In January 1994, The Pretenders performed live on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," showcasing their iconic sound during a pivotal period of their car... Read Full Description >

    In January 1994, The Pretenders performed live on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," showcasing their iconic sound during a pivotal period of their career. Prior to this performance, the band had released their album "Last of the Independents" in 1994, which included the hit single "I'll Stand by You" that they performed on the show. This album represented a resurgence for the band in the early '90s after some lineup changes and the tragic loss of founding member James Honeyman-Scott in the 1980s. Interestingly, "I'll Stand by You" marked a significant moment in the band's history, highlighting lead singer Chrissie Hynde's emotional and lyrical depth. The band's presence on a major talk show also demonstrates their enduring popularity and relevance in the music scene at the time, as they successfully bridged generations of rock music listeners.

The Pretenders Perform 'Creep' Live at Jakob Street Studios, London

Jakob Street Studios
London, United Kingdom

November 30, 1994 | Video Length: 3:59
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  • In November 1994, when The Pretenders performed "Creep" at London's Jakob Street Studios, they were navigating a transitional phase in their career. T... Read Full Description >

    In November 1994, when The Pretenders performed "Creep" at London's Jakob Street Studios, they were navigating a transitional phase in their career. This live recording came shortly after the release of their album "Last of the Independents," which debuted in 1994. The album marked a significant return for the band after a period of lineup changes and featured their hit "I'll Stand by You," showcasing their continued relevance in the rock scene. Notably, this performance is intriguing as it highlights the band's willingness to cover contemporary music, such as Radiohead's "Creep," revealing their adaptability and respect for evolving musical landscapes. The year 1994 was important for The Pretenders, as it reflected their resilience and ability to maintain a presence in the changing dynamics of rock music.

Pretenders Perform 'Brass in Pocket' at VH1 Fashion Awards 1995

Radio City Music Hall
New York, NY, United States

October 19, 1995 | Video Length: 3:39
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  • In 1995, the Pretenders performed "Brass in Pocket" at the VH1 Fashion Awards, showcasing their enduring presence in the rock scene. By this time, the... Read Full Description >

    In 1995, the Pretenders performed "Brass in Pocket" at the VH1 Fashion Awards, showcasing their enduring presence in the rock scene. By this time, the band was riding the momentum of their 1994 album, *Last of the Independents*, which marked a successful return after a brief hiatus and showcased a more mature sound. The live performance at Radio City Music Hall highlighted their ability to captivate audiences, even as they adjusted to the evolving musical landscape of the 1990s. Interestingly, the year before, the Pretenders had released the hit single "I'll Stand by You," which became one of their most recognizable tracks. This success, coupled with the live recording at a high-profile event, demonstrated not only the band's resilience and relevance but also their capacity to blend rock with pop sensibilities, thereby reaching a broader audience.

  • In May 1999, the Pretenders were in a transitional phase, having recently released their album "Viva El Amor" in 1999, which was their first studio al... Read Full Description >

    In May 1999, the Pretenders were in a transitional phase, having recently released their album "Viva El Amor" in 1999, which was their first studio album in nearly a decade. This period marked an important comeback for the band, as it featured a blend of their classic rock sound with contemporary influences. The live performance at the Cannes Film Festival showcased their enduring appeal and ability to captivate audiences, reflecting the band's resilience after past lineup changes and challenges. Notably, during this phase, lead singer Chrissie Hynde was recognized not only for her unique vocal style and songwriting but also for her advocacy on various social issues. This performance included the song "Human," emphasizing the band's ability to deliver powerful messages while still engaging in their legacy of rock music.

The Pretenders Perform 'My City Was Gone' Live at Wiltern Theater, L.A.

Wiltern Theater
Los Angeles, CA, United States

November 30, 2002 | Video Length: 6:44
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  • In the live recording "My City Was Gone" from November 30, 2002, captured at the iconic Wiltern Theater in Los Angeles, the Pretenders were in a notab... Read Full Description >

    In the live recording "My City Was Gone" from November 30, 2002, captured at the iconic Wiltern Theater in Los Angeles, the Pretenders were in a notable phase of their career. This performance occurred shortly after the release of their album "Loose Screw" in 2002, which marked the band's return after a lengthy hiatus. The album showcased a mix of classic Pretenders’ rock sound and new influences, reflecting the band's evolution over the years. Notably, this live show captured the energy and grit of the band as they connected with their audience. The Pretenders, led by frontwoman Chrissie Hynde, are known for their strong songwriting and distinctive sound, characterized by a blend of punk, rock, and new wave elements, making their live performances dynamic and memorable. The choice of venue also added to the historical significance, as the Wiltern Theater is celebrated for its architectural beauty and rich musical heritage.

Live Performance of 'Mystery Achievement' by Pretenders at Wiltern Theater, L.A.

Wiltern Theater
Los Angeles, CA, United States

January 1, 2003 | Video Length: 6:26
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  • In January 2003, The Pretenders performed live at the Wiltern Theater in Los Angeles, during a pivotal time in their career that followed the release ... Read Full Description >

    In January 2003, The Pretenders performed live at the Wiltern Theater in Los Angeles, during a pivotal time in their career that followed the release of their album "Loose Screw" in 2002. This album marked a resurgence for the band, as it was their first studio release in a decade and showcased a return to their rock roots with a contemporary touch. The live performance of "Mystery Achievement," one of their classic hits, highlights the band's enduring appeal and the connection they maintained with their audience. Notably, this live recording also reflects the band's ability to blend old and new material, demonstrating their evolution while still honoring the sound that established them in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The performance at the iconic Wiltern Theater, a historic venue, further cements their legacy in rock music.

The Pretenders - I'll Stand By You Live in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA, United States

January 1, 2003 | Video Length: 4:00
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  • In January 2003, when The Pretenders performed "I'll Stand By You" in Los Angeles, the band was experiencing a resurgence in their career after severa... Read Full Description >

    In January 2003, when The Pretenders performed "I'll Stand By You" in Los Angeles, the band was experiencing a resurgence in their career after several years of varied musical explorations and lineup changes. This live recording came shortly after the release of their album "Loose Screw," which had been released in 2002. "Loose Screw" was notable for its more polished sound and was seen as a return to the band’s rock roots, reflecting a blend of classic Pretenders style with contemporary influences. Interestingly, the band faced significant challenges, including the death of founding member and bassist Pete Farndon and guitarist James Honeyman-Scott in the early years, which added a layer of resilience to Chrissie Hynde's leadership as the band's driving force. This performance exemplifies the enduring appeal of The Pretenders and Hynde's status as a female rock icon, showcasing her powerful vocals and commitment to the band's legacy.

Pretenders and Neil Young Perform 'My City Was Gone' at Hall of Fame Ceremony

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
New York, NY, United States

January 1, 2005 | Video Length: 6:03
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  • In January 2005, The Pretenders had recently been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, marking a significant moment in their career that coinci... Read Full Description >

    In January 2005, The Pretenders had recently been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, marking a significant moment in their career that coincided with the live performance of "My City Was Gone" alongside Neil Young. At this point, they had released their album "Loose Screw" in 2002, which showcased the band's evolution and incorporated a more mature sound that resonated with their enduring fan base. The induction ceremony highlighted their lasting impact on rock music and their ability to craft memorable songs that blend punk roots with pop sensibilities. Interesting to note, "My City Was Gone," one of their most iconic tracks, was a reflection of lead singer Chrissie Hynde's personal experiences and critiques of urban development, revealing the depth of her artistry. The collaboration with Neil Young during this significant event not only reinforced The Pretenders' place in rock history but also exemplified their influence and connections within the music community.

Pretenders - 'Precious' Live Performance at Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
New York, NY, United States

March 14, 2005 | Video Length: 4:08
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  • In March 2005, the Pretenders were celebrated at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, a significant milestone in their career. By this tim... Read Full Description >

    In March 2005, the Pretenders were celebrated at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, a significant milestone in their career. By this time, the band had released their sixth studio album, "Loose Screw," in 2002, which showcased their ability to evolve while maintaining their signature sound. Notably, their performance of "Precious" during the ceremony highlighted the enduring impact of their early work, as this song originally appeared on their self-titled debut album in 1980. This performance marked a reunion of the original members with Chrissie Hynde, further emphasizing the band's legacy and influence in rock music. The induction ceremony also underscored the Pretenders' resilience and relevance in the industry, reflecting on over two decades of contributions to music. The event was a celebration of their journey, acknowledging both their classic hits and their more recent works.

Live Performance of 'Don't Get Me Wrong' by Pretenders in London

London, United Kingdom

January 1, 2009 | Video Length: 3:44
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  • By January 1, 2009, The Pretenders had released their ninth studio album, "Break Up the Concrete," in 2008, which marked a significant return to form ... Read Full Description >

    By January 1, 2009, The Pretenders had released their ninth studio album, "Break Up the Concrete," in 2008, which marked a significant return to form for the band after a period of experimentation. This live performance of "Don't Get Me Wrong," a classic track from their 1986 album "Get Close," showcases the band's enduring appeal and their ability to connect with both long-time fans and new audiences. Interestingly, the band’s lead vocalist and primary songwriter, Chrissie Hynde, has been a constant driving force, often recognized for her strong stage presence and distinctive voice. The live recording in London captures a moment where The Pretenders were enjoying a resurgence, performing with vigor and highlighting their classic hits while promoting their latest work, thus reflecting their dynamic career evolution over the decades.

The Pretenders Live in London - 'Brass In Pocket' Performance

London, United Kingdom

January 1, 2009 | Video Length: 3:03
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  • In January 2009, during the live recording of "Brass in Pocket" in London, the Pretenders were in a unique phase of their career marked by the release... Read Full Description >

    In January 2009, during the live recording of "Brass in Pocket" in London, the Pretenders were in a unique phase of their career marked by the release of "Break Up the Concrete," their eighth studio album, which had come out the previous year in 2008. This album showcased a blend of rock and folk influences, reflecting a mature sound that retained the core elements of their early work. Notably, "Brass in Pocket," one of their signature hits from 1979, continues to resonate with audiences, illustrating the band's enduring legacy in rock music. The live performance captures the dynamic energy of the band, including frontwoman Chrissie Hynde, known for her powerful vocals and commanding stage presence. By 2009, the Pretenders were also celebrated for their ability to blend classic hits with newer material, affirming their place in both past and contemporary music scenes.

The Pretenders Perform 'Middle of the Road' on Austin City Limits

ACL Live at The Moody Theater
Austin, TX, United States

January 1, 2011 | Video Length: 5:34
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  • In January 2011, The Pretenders made their debut on "Austin City Limits," performing a set that included their classic hit "Middle of the Road." This ... Read Full Description >

    In January 2011, The Pretenders made their debut on "Austin City Limits," performing a set that included their classic hit "Middle of the Road." This performance came shortly after the release of their album "Alone," which was issued in January 2016. The band, known for its blend of rock, punk, and new wave influences, was fronted by Chrissie Hynde, the sole original member remaining. During this period, the group was experiencing a resurgence, revitalizing their sound with new material while honoring their extensive catalog. "Alone" featured contributions from acclaimed producer and musician Joe Henry, signaling a fresh yet familiar chapter for the band. This live performance highlighted The Pretenders' enduring impact on the music scene and showcased their ability to connect with both new and longtime fans through their dynamic stage presence and celebrated songs.

The Pretenders Perform 'Message of Love' | Austin City Limits Concert Highlights

The Moody Theater
Austin, TX, United States

January 1, 2011 | Video Length: 4:01
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  • In January 2011, The Pretenders made their debut on "Austin City Limits" with a live performance that spanned their illustrious career. At this time, ... Read Full Description >

    In January 2011, The Pretenders made their debut on "Austin City Limits" with a live performance that spanned their illustrious career. At this time, they had recently released the album "Alone," which marked their first studio effort in over a decade. This record, featuring a sound that combined classic Pretenders elements with modern production, was well-received and showcased the band's enduring relevance in rock music. During the performance, they delivered "Message of Love," a beloved track that exemplifies their signature blend of raw energy and melodic sophistication. The band's lineup had evolved over the years, with Chrissie Hynde remaining the iconic frontwoman while newer members brought fresh dynamics to their sound. The performance highlighted not only their legacy but also their ability to connect with contemporary audiences, reaffirming their status as rock legends.

Chrissie Hynde Performs 'Back On The Chain Gang' at Radio 2 Live in Hyde Park

Hyde Park
London, United Kingdom

September 14, 2014 | Video Length: 4:14
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  • In 2014, when Chrissie Hynde performed "Back On The Chain Gang" at Radio 2 Live in Hyde Park, she was at a notable point in her career, marking the re... Read Full Description >

    In 2014, when Chrissie Hynde performed "Back On The Chain Gang" at Radio 2 Live in Hyde Park, she was at a notable point in her career, marking the release of her first solo album, "Stockholm," earlier that same year. This performance showcased her enduring legacy as a rock artist and highlighted her ability to connect with audiences, both in her band, The Pretenders, and as a solo artist. The album "Stockholm" featured a fresh sound, blending her punk roots with more pop and rock influences, demonstrating her evolution as a musician. Additionally, Hynde's performance at such a prominent venue as Hyde Park reflects her sustained popularity and influence within the music industry, well after the original heyday of The Pretenders in the late 1970s and early 1980s. This live rendition encapsulates her iconic status and the timeless appeal of her songwriting, particularly with a song that has become a classic in her repertoire.

The Pretenders Full Concert - Austin City Limits

Austin City Limits
Austin, TX, United States

October 7, 2017 | Video Length: 51:40
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  • In October 2017, during the recording of "Austin City Limits," The Pretenders were promoting their most recent album, "Alone," which was released in J... Read Full Description >

    In October 2017, during the recording of "Austin City Limits," The Pretenders were promoting their most recent album, "Alone," which was released in January 2016. This marked a significant period in the band's career as it was their first album in nearly a decade, featuring new material primarily written by lead vocalist Chrissie Hynde and produced by Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys. The setlist for the Austin performance would likely have included tracks from "Alone," showcasing the band's enduring relevance and adaptability in the rock landscape. Interesting to note, this appearance reaffirmed the band's legacy, not only as pioneers of the new wave scene but also as a band maintaining their creative output into the 21st century, highlighting Hynde's powerful voice and the band's signature sound amidst evolving musical trends. The show captured both nostalgia and a fresh take on their extensive catalog.

Pretenders Perform 'Tattooed Love Boys' Featuring Johnny Marr & Dave Grohl at Glastonbury

Glastonbury Festival
Pilton, England, United Kingdom

June 24, 2023 | Video Length: 4:37
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  • During the live recording of "Tattooed Love Boys" at Glastonbury Festival on June 24, 2023, the Pretenders were celebrating their decades-long legacy ... Read Full Description >

    During the live recording of "Tattooed Love Boys" at Glastonbury Festival on June 24, 2023, the Pretenders were celebrating their decades-long legacy while promoting their album "Relentless," which had been released in 2020. This performance featured notable collaborations, as the band was joined by music legends Johnny Marr and Dave Grohl, who added significant star power to the set. The Pretenders, originally formed in 1978, have a history of memorable performances and collaborations, but this moment was particularly special as it showcased their adaptability and continued relevance in the music scene. In addition, the presence of Marr, known for his work with The Smiths, and Grohl, the frontman of Foo Fighters, highlighted the band's enduring influence and connections within rock music. The live recording at Glastonbury underscored not only their classic hits but also their ability to engage with contemporary music icons.

The Pretenders - Live Full Concert at The Fillmore, Philadelphia

The Fillmore
Philadelphia, PA, United States

July 14, 2024 | Video Length: 1:28:51
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  • On July 14, 2024, The Pretenders performed a live concert at The Fillmore in Philadelphia, showcasing their signature blend of rock and new wave. At t... Read Full Description >

    On July 14, 2024, The Pretenders performed a live concert at The Fillmore in Philadelphia, showcasing their signature blend of rock and new wave. At this point in their career, the band was promoting their album "Hate for Sale," which was released in July 2020. This marked their first studio album in nearly a decade and received positive reviews, highlighting the band's enduring appeal. Notably, the concert featured a mix of new tracks from "Hate for Sale" alongside classic hits, demonstrating their ability to connect with both long-time fans and newer audiences. Chrissie Hynde, the band's frontwoman and primary songwriter, has long been celebrated for her powerful vocal style and enigmatic stage presence, which were on full display during this performance. The setlist from the concert included fan favorites such as "Brass in Pocket" and "My City Was Gone," further underscoring the band's legacy in the rock music scene.

The Pretenders - Live Performance of 'Back On The Chain Gang' at Decades Rock Arena

Decades Rock Arena
Atlantic City, NJ, United States

Date Unknown | Video Length: 3:32
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  • The live recording of "Back On The Chain Gang" by The Pretenders at the Decades Rock Arena marked a notable moment in the band's career, showcasing th... Read Full Description >

    The live recording of "Back On The Chain Gang" by The Pretenders at the Decades Rock Arena marked a notable moment in the band's career, showcasing the enduring legacy of their music. By this time, the band had experienced significant lineup changes, with Chrissie Hynde remaining as the constant driving force. The performance likely occurred during a period where they were celebrating their past hits while also promoting their later work, such as the album "Break Up the Concrete," released in 2008, well after their initial rise to fame in the 1980s. This particular live event featured special guests like Iggy Pop and Shirley Manson, emphasizing The Pretenders' respected status in the rock genre and their ability to collaborate with other influential artists. The event not only celebrated their classic tracks but also reaffirmed their relevance in the contemporary music scene.

The Pretenders Live Performance of 'Show Me' in Dortmund, Germany

Dortmund, Germany

Date Unknown | Video Length: 4:31
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  • In the live recording from Dortmund in 1984, Pretenders were experiencing a peak period in their career, having released their second album, "Pretende... Read Full Description >

    In the live recording from Dortmund in 1984, Pretenders were experiencing a peak period in their career, having released their second album, "Pretenders II," in 1981. This tour was crucial for the band as they were solidifying their presence in the rock scene following their successful self-titled debut. The performance is noted for its raw energy and showcases the band's blend of punk, new wave, and melodic rock. By 1984, the Pretenders had also released their third studio album, "Learning to Crawl," which would come out later that year and mark a significant evolution in their sound, partly due to lineup changes and personal struggles within the band. Interesting factors relating to this recording include the fact that lead singer Chrissie Hynde's strong stage presence and vocal delivery were pivotal in defining the band's identity during this era, contributing to their lasting influence in rock music.

  • The live recording of the Pretenders, titled "Six Song Medley," showcases a performance during the band's career in 2009. By this time, they had recen... Read Full Description >

    The live recording of the Pretenders, titled "Six Song Medley," showcases a performance during the band's career in 2009. By this time, they had recently released the album "Breaking Up the Girl" in 2008, which showcased a return to form for the band under the leadership of founding member, Chrissie Hynde. The live set includes classic hits such as "Back on the Chain Gang" and "Brass in Pocket," highlighting the enduring popularity of their earlier work while demonstrating their ability to engage contemporary audiences. An interesting aspect of this period in the band's history is that Hynde's distinctive vocal style and the band's unique fusion of rock and new wave continued to resonate, attracting both longtime fans and new listeners. The 2009 performance exemplifies a blend of their rich catalog, illustrating the band's influence and evolution over time.

  • Before the live recording of "I'll Stand by You" featuring an orchestra, the Pretenders released their sixth studio album, "Last of the Independents,"... Read Full Description >

    Before the live recording of "I'll Stand by You" featuring an orchestra, the Pretenders released their sixth studio album, "Last of the Independents," in 1994, which included the hit single "I'll Stand by You." By the time this live version was performed, Chrissie Hynde and the band were well-established in the rock scene, having built a reputation for their unique blend of punk and new wave influences. The recording showcases Hynde's powerful vocal delivery, resonating with emotional depth, which has become a hallmark of her performances. Additionally, the band's ability to reinterpret their hits with orchestral arrangements highlights their versatility and continued relevance in the music industry. This live performance also exemplifies Hynde's longstanding commitment to her craft, demonstrating that the Pretenders remained a vital force in music well into the 1990s and beyond.

The Pretenders Live in Sydney - Full Concert

Sydney, Australia

Date Unknown | Video Length: 1:6:36
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The Pretenders Perform 'Mystery Achievement' Live at Decades Rock Arena

Decades Rock Arena
Atlantic City, NJ, United States

Date Unknown | Video Length: 5:00
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  • The live recording of "Mystery Achievement" by The Pretenders at Decades Rock Arena in Atlantic City showcases the band during a significant period in... Read Full Description >

    The live recording of "Mystery Achievement" by The Pretenders at Decades Rock Arena in Atlantic City showcases the band during a significant period in their career. This performance likely occurred around the mid-2000s, following their compilation album "The Pretenders: Greatest Hits," released in 2000. At this point, Chrissie Hynde and her band had solidified their presence in rock music, celebrated for their pioneering sound that blends punk and pop influences. Notably, this performance featured an array of special guests, including Iggy Pop and Shirley Manson, emphasizing the band's enduring influence and relationships in the music industry. This unique collaboration also reflects the band's ability to bridge generations of rock music, highlighting their relevance even years past their original breakthrough in the early 1980s. The energy of the live setting combined with these guest appearances paints a vibrant picture of The Pretenders' legacy and ongoing impact.

The Pretenders Featuring Iggy Pop Perform 'Candy' Live at Decades Rock Arena

Decades Rock Arena
Atlantic City, NJ, United States

Date Unknown | Video Length: 3:58
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  • In the live recording of "The Pretenders - Candy ft. Iggy Pop," the band, led by the iconic Chrissie Hynde, showcases their enduring appeal with a gue... Read Full Description >

    In the live recording of "The Pretenders - Candy ft. Iggy Pop," the band, led by the iconic Chrissie Hynde, showcases their enduring appeal with a guest appearance by Iggy Pop. This performance was part of the Decades Rock Arena show, which highlights the band's legacy in rock music. Prior to this recording, The Pretenders released their album "Loose Screw" in 2002, which demonstrated their ability to evolve while maintaining their classic sound. Additionally, this era featured shifts in musical style for the band, showcasing influences from various rock genres. The inclusion of notable collaborations during live shows, like with Iggy Pop, emphasizes the band's knack for blending their rock roots with contemporary artists, resonating with both old fans and new audiences alike. Overall, this live event serves as a testament to The Pretenders' lasting impact on the music scene.

  • The live recording of "I'll Stand By You" by The Pretenders showcases a pivotal moment in the band's career, occurring during the promotion of their a... Read Full Description >

    The live recording of "I'll Stand By You" by The Pretenders showcases a pivotal moment in the band's career, occurring during the promotion of their album "Last of the Independents," released in 1994. This album marked a comeback for the group, featuring a more polished sound while maintaining their rock roots, and included other hit singles like "Back on the Chain Gang." During this period, lead singer Chrissie Hynde not only solidified her status as a prominent female figure in rock music but also highlighted the band's resilience after the challenging times they experienced in the 1980s. The song "I'll Stand By You" itself was a significant hit, reaching the top of the charts and renown for its heartfelt lyrics and emotional depth, often associated with themes of loyalty and support. The live performance underscores the band's dynamic presence and ability to connect with audiences, showcasing their enduring legacy in the rock genre.

The Pretenders - Back on the Chain Gang Live Performance in London

London, United Kingdom

Date Unknown | Video Length: 4:06
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  • The live recording of "Back on the Chain Gang" by The Pretenders, captured in London, takes place during a significant period in the band's career. Re... Read Full Description >

    The live recording of "Back on the Chain Gang" by The Pretenders, captured in London, takes place during a significant period in the band's career. Released in 1982, "Back on the Chain Gang" is part of their acclaimed album "Learning to Crawl." This album marks a poignant moment for the group, as it followed the tragic death of guitarist James Honeyman-Scott, which profoundly impacted band dynamics and songwriting. Interestingly, "Learning to Crawl" showcases a blend of rock and new wave influences, and its themes of loss and resilience resonate through this particular track. The live performance illustrates the band's ability to connect emotionally with their audience, conveying both the weight of their past experiences and their enduring spirit as a band, solidifying their place in the music scene during the early 1980s.