The 1980s saw a shift in Chrissie Hynde's image, from a rebellious rockstar to a mother of two, but her passion and outspokenness remained intact. But here's where it gets controversial: Hynde's sharp tongue and unfiltered opinions sparked a memorable attack on the English people and their beloved soap opera, 'EastEnders'.
The frontwoman of The Pretenders, Chrissie Hynde, had a reputation for her fiery spirit, especially during her wild youth in the 1970s. However, by the mid-1980s, with two children and a string of pop hits under her belt, one might have expected a more mellowed-out version of the artist. But Hynde's passion for calling out societal issues remained as fierce as ever.
Her targets were often the big corporations and fellow musicians who sold out to them. In a 1986 interview with Smash Hits, she didn't hold back: "The reason for global starvation is big companies like Pepsi Cola... All these musicians are selling out for advertisements." Hynde's criticism extended to her adopted home, the UK, where she took aim at the English people's resistance to change, saying, "The English are petty... They'd rather be oblivious than face the truth."
Hynde's disillusionment with the world was growing, as she felt the idealistic dreams of her generation were being crushed by capitalism. She longed for a revolution, but her frustration with charity events like Live Aid was evident. Her most fervent cause, animal rights, seemed to be losing the battle in the face of public apathy. She believed people were more concerned with trivial matters, like soap operas, than the suffering of animals.
In a dramatic outburst, Hynde expressed her frustration with society's complacency: "People are content with petty gratifications, keeping their eyes closed to the world's problems." However, despite her strong words, The Pretenders' 1986 album, 'Get Close', was surprisingly soft, leaving fans of her rebellious side to seek solace in her magazine interviews.
A controversial figure or a passionate activist? Chrissie Hynde's unapologetic attitude and willingness to speak truth to power are admirable to some, but others may find her statements extreme. What do you think? Is Hynde's criticism of society's apathy valid, or does it cross the line into unnecessary harshness? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
