Text adapted from ChatGPT
The Pretenders are a British-American rock band formed in Hereford, UK, in 1978. The band was originally comprised of lead vocalist and songwriter Chrissie Hynde, guitarist and founding member James Honeyman-Scott, bassist Pete Farndon, and drummer Martin Chambers.
Their self-titled debut album, released in 1980, was a critical and commercial success, featuring hit singles such as Brass in Pocket (UK no.1) and Kid. The Pretenders blended elements of punk rock with new wave and pop sensibilities, creating their own distinctive sound, characterized by Hynde's distinctive voice, catchy melodies, and socially conscious lyrics. Tragically, both Honeyman-Scott and Farndon died of drug-related causes in the early 1980s, leaving Hynde and Chambers to carry on the band's legacy. Despite these setbacks, The Pretenders continued to release albums and achieve success throughout the 1980s and beyond.
Some of their other notable hits include "Back on the Chain Gang," "Middle of the Road," and "Don't Get Me Wrong." The band's lineup has evolved over the years, with Hynde remaining the sole constant member.