Chrissie Hynde provides exclusive track-by-track insight into ‘Duets Special’ with Brandon Flowers as the perfect fit
Chrissie Hynde, the frontwoman of The Pretenders, has unveiled a comprehensive track-by-track analysis of her upcoming album, ‘Duets Special’. This covers album includes an impressive lineup of collaborations and showcases the versatility of Hynde’s artistry.
Key Details of ‘Duets Special’
The album is set for release on October 17, 2023, through Parlophone. Featuring 13 tracks, ‘Duets Special’ boasts collaborations with various artists:
- Brandon Flowers from The Killers
- Debbie Harry from Blondie
- Dave Gahan from Depeche Mode
- Shirley Manson from Garbage
- Mark Lanegan (posthumously) on “Can’t Help Falling In Love”
- Cat Power
- Alan Sparhawk
- Dan Auerbach from The Black Keys
Notable Collaborations
The opening track, “Me and Mrs Jones,” features k.d. lang, a connection that traces back to their early days touring together. Hynde recalls their shared passion for animal welfare as the bond that formed their friendship.
Reflecting on her experience with Mark Lanegan, Hynde expressed regret at never having met him. Their collaboration on Elvis Presley’s classic highlights Lanegan’s profound influence and talent.
Guest Artists and Their Contributions
Covers on the album also include noteworthy contributions such as:
- “Sway” featuring Lucinda Williams
- “Dolphins” with Dave Gahan
- “First Of The Gang To Die” alongside Cat Power
- “Always On My Mind” featuring Rufus Wainwright
- “County Line” with Alan Sparhawk
Hynde has a deep admiration for each collaborator, describing Brandon Flowers as the “perfect fit” for the track “I’m Not In Love.” She found common ground with Shirley Manson, noting their shared Scottish roots.
Insights from Chrissie Hynde
Hynde revealed that the idea for ‘Duets Special’ emerged in early 2023, during a conversation with Rufus Wainwright’s husband. What started as a casual suggestion to collaborate quickly evolved into a fully-realized project with a focus on significant musical pairs.
Before the release of ‘Duets Special’, Hynde participated in a performance at the BBC Radio 2 Piano Room on October 16, 2023. This album follows her previous solo projects, showcasing her continual evolution as an artist.
‘Duets Special’ promises to deliver not only strong musical collaborations but also memorable interpretations of classic songs, reinforcing Hynde’s status as a prominent figure in the music industry.
