Dear listeners,
I had the incredible opportunity to attend a truly remarkable concert on Wednesday night. Imagine squeezing into Manhattan’s Bowery Ballroom along with approximately 600 other fans. We were packed so tightly that moving was nearly impossible, and even clapping seemed like a risky venture with elbows flying everywhere. The cherry on top? It was hot and humid, with New York’s August weather keeping us at a sticky 75 percent humidity. Under normal circumstances, I might not have endured such conditions for more than half a set. But this was no ordinary show. This was a chance to witness the legendary rock band, the Pretenders, in a small and intimate club setting.
Just the night before, Chrissie Hynde and her bandmates had performed in front of a crowd that was roughly 100 times larger, as the opening act for Guns N’ Roses at MetLife Stadium. However, on this tour, which marks the band’s return after a hiatus due to the events of 2020, the Pretenders decided to surprise their fans by playing smaller venues between their massive stadium gigs. This meant not only Manhattan’s Bowery Ballroom but also iconic locations like the Atlantis in Washington, D.C. and the Stone Pony in Asbury Park, N.J.
At MetLife Stadium, the crowd was treated to the band’s greatest hits: “Brass in Pocket,” “Back on the Chain Gang,” and “I’ll Stand by You.” However, the setlist at the Bowery Ballroom delved deeper into their discography, showcasing lesser-known tracks and fan favorites. While I was already familiar with some of these songs, this show also introduced me to a few hidden gems that I hadn’t heard before. Now, of course, I simply must share these discoveries with you through today’s playlist, comprised entirely of the songs performed that unforgettable Wednesday night.
Even at 71 years old, Chrissie Hynde exudes a coolness and badassery that is unparalleled. She commanded the stage with her distinctive black eye makeup, fiery attitude, and incredibly powerful voice. Her delivery carries a sneering enunciation that transcends both American and British accents, almost as if her passport’s birthplace simply reads “rock ‘n’ roll.” (But don’t worry, she still proudly represents her home state of Ohio, as you will see in this playlist.)
While Hynde is the sole original member touring with the Pretenders in this edition of the band (she mentioned that the original drummer, Martin Chambers, sent his regards to the crowd), the current lineup is nothing short of exceptional. Lead guitarist James Walbourne steals the spotlight with his rockabilly-inspired hairdo and virtuosic skills. He has been touring with the band since 2008 and has even co-written two Pretenders albums with Hynde: 2020’s “Hate for Sale” and their upcoming 12th album “Relentless,” set to release on September 15th.
“To live forever, that’s the plan, the longest living mortal man,” sings Hynde on “Let the Sun Come In,” an anthemic single from “Relentless” that showcases the band’s tongue-in-cheek attitude. However, given the Pretenders’ history with untimely deaths, these lyrics take on a haunting significance. Two original members, guitarist James Honeyman-Scott and bassist Pete Farndon, tragically passed away due to drug-related causes shortly after the release of the band’s second album.
Hynde herself has experienced firsthand the transient nature of rock stardom, as well as the fragility of life itself. Despite these obstacles, she has displayed an unwavering determination and perseverance for over four decades. The Bowery Ballroom show served as a stark reminder that she is a living legend who should never be taken for granted. In a male-dominated industry, she refused to conform or dilute her raw edges in pursuit of artistic fulfillment. As she sang on that Wednesday night, her tough-as-nails spirit prevailed: “We don’t have to fade to black. Let the sun come in.”
Now, as you read this, I invite you to listen along on Spotify to our carefully curated playlist. Each track has been selected from the Pretenders’ setlist that night at the Bowery Ballroom, ensuring an authentic and exhilarating experience.
1. “Turf Accountant Daddy”
2. “Downtown (Akron)”
3. “Time the Avenger”
4. “Boots of Chinese Plastic (Live)”
5. “Thumbelina”
6. “Tequila”
7. “Gotta Wait”
8. “You Can’t Hurt a Fool”
9. “Let the Sun Come In”
10. “Precious”
Bonus tracks: In our new music playlist, you’ll find a recently released song from Guns N’ Roses, who performed alongside the Pretenders on tour. Additionally, there’s an exclusive demo from the incomparable Joni Mitchell, a Beatles reunion courtesy of Dolly Parton, and much more. Don’t miss out; give it a listen here.
Wishing you a rock-filled day,
Lindsay
The Amplifier Playlist
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