#152 of 500
· Rolling Stone
“Deep enough in the list to separate casual fans from serious collectors. The Pretenders's Pretenders (1980) is rock that transcends its genre tag. The original pressing is the one to find — the kind of record that stops you mid-flip at the store.”
The Pretenders were formed in 1978 by American singer-songwriter Chrissie Hynde, featuring British guitarist James Honeyman-Scott, bassist Pete Farndon, and drummer Martin Chambers. The band emerged from the punk and new wave movement, achieving massive commercial success throughout the 1980s with their debut album 'Pretenders' (1980) and breakthrough album 'Pretenders II' (1981). Tragically, both Honeyman-Scott and Farndon died in the mid-1980s, leading Hynde to rebuild the band with various musicians. Despite these setbacks, The Pretenders continued recording and touring successfully, with notable albums including 'Learning to Crawl' (1984) and 'Get Close' (1986). The band has remained active with Hynde as the sole original member, releasing albums into the 2000s and continuing to tour.
Style
The Pretenders blend punk energy with new wave sophistication and pop sensibility, featuring Hynde's distinctive contralto vocals, jangly guitars, and infectious melodies. Their sound incorporates elements of rock, post-punk, and mainstream pop, creating accessible yet artistically credible music.
Significance
The Pretenders are essential to vinyl collectors interested in 1980s alternative rock and new wave, with their early albums representing a crucial bridge between punk rebellion and mainstream pop success. Their original pressings, particularly the debut and 'Pretenders II,' are highly sought after for their production quality and cultural importance to the era.
The Pretenders' self-titled debut album was recorded in 1980 and released in December of that year, marking the arrival of Chrissie Hynde as a major force in rock music. Hynde, an American singer-songwriter who had been working as a music journalist and model in London, assembled a band featuring Pete Farndon on bass, Martin Chambers on drums, and James Honeyman-Scott on guitar. The album was produced by Chris Thomas, who brought a polished yet raw energy to songs Hynde had written. The recording sessions captured the band's tight chemistry and Hynde's distinctive vocal style, delivering a collection of songs that blended new wave, punk, and rock influences. Key tracks like 'Brass in Pocket' and 'Stop Your Sobbing' (a cover of The Kinks song) showcased Hynde's songwriting prowess and the band's instrumental prowess, while deeper cuts revealed a thoughtful artist tackling themes of relationships and independence.
Historical Context
Released in December 1980, The Pretenders' debut arrived during a dynamic period when new wave and punk were becoming mainstream forces in rock music. The album found immediate commercial and critical success, eventually reaching the top 10 in the UK and establishing The Pretenders as more than a novelty act. 'Brass in Pocket' became an international hit single, reaching the top 5 in multiple countries and receiving heavy MTV rotation. The album's blend of sophistication and edge resonated with audiences tired of stadium rock while appreciating musicianship. The Pretenders' success helped validate the presence of strong female frontpersons in rock during an era when they remained relatively rare in mainstream rock.
Pressing Notes
The original 1980 UK pressing on Real Records is highly sought after by collectors, as is the US release on Sire Records. Early pressings feature varying matrix numbers and label designs. The album has been reissued multiple times, including 180-gram audiophile pressings and remastered versions from the 2000s onward. Collectors should note that original UK pressings are generally preferred for their warm, natural sound compared to some later reissues. The album's gatefold sleeve and original artwork remain consistent across most pressings. Condition and original pressing identification can significantly affect value among serious collectors of 1980s new wave vinyl.
Parallel Lines
Blondie
Shares the same late-70s new wave rock energy with sharp songwriting and Debbie Harry's commanding presence paralleling Chrissie Hynde's vocal style.
The Cars
The Cars
Features similarly polished yet edgy rock sensibilities with catchy hooks and a blend of new wave and rock that defined the era.
Talking Heads: 77
Talking Heads
Captures the same post-punk new wave aesthetic with angular guitar work and neurotic energy that made The Pretenders' debut so compelling.
My Aim Is True
Elvis Costello
Delivers sharp, witty songwriting with driving rock arrangements and a rebellious attitude that resonates with The Pretenders' punk-influenced approach.
The Clash
The Clash
Combines punk rawness with rock sophistication and features the same late-70s urgency and guitar-driven intensity as The Pretenders' debut.
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