John Niven interviews Chrissie Hynde about her book Reckless

By the time she was 14, Chrissie Hynde knew she had to get out of Akron, Ohio. Her perfect ’50s American childhood upturned by a newly acquired taste for rock ’n’ roll, motorbikes and the ‘get down boys’ seen at gigs in and around Cleveland - Mitch Ryder, the Jeff Beck Group, the Velvet Underground and David Bowie among the many.
Wrapped up in the Kent State University riots and getting dangerously involved in the local biker and drug scenes, she escaped - to Mexico, Canada, Paris and finally London where she caught the embryonic punk scene just in time not only to witness it first-hand, but more importantly to seize the opportunity to form her own band, the Pretenders.
Iggy Pop, the Sex Pistols, the Clash, Vivienne & Malcolm, Ray Davies … on every page household names mingle with small town heroes as we shift from bedroom to biker HQ; from squat to practice room; from pub gig to Top Of The Pops - the long and crooked path to stardom, and for the Pretenders, ultimately, tragedy.
That Chrissie Hynde is alive to tell the tale is, by her own admission, something of a miracle. Throughout she is brutally honest, wryly humorous and always highly entertaining. She has written one of the most evocative and colourful music memoirs to be published in recent years.
ORDER A COPY OF RECKLESS: amzn.to/1IYo49j

[@thomasmitchell4756]

Chrissie is such an unpretentious, hard working force in music. As I recall it was only her on the radio in 1979 and I'm so impressed that she downplays what it took to get there. The natural born quitter had persistance that served all of us well.

[@marka.5135]

One of the better, more insightful Chrissie interviews I've ever seen. One key thing is evident here. Ask real, intelligent questions, get a straight answer.

[@hotajax]

This is one very bright lady.

[@pjt3887]

Exactly there's one thing she doesn't do is the BS interview. I'm still trying to get through the book. I'm a huge fan but the first part of her book what's going on and on about how great Ohio was.

[@mark8827]

What happened to the last six years? X

[@deborahfischer3231]

I enjoyed the book thoroughly! YES ! Chrissie, you are a writer and a damn good one. I've started many a book and put it down after the first couple of pages. But your writing style kept me enthralled and I couldn't put it down ! Thanks for your book .

[@texcentric]

I saw the Pretenders in 83 & again in 84 and both times I was awestruck by how much better her voice sounded live than on the recording. I didn't know that was possible until those shows.

[@rodmclean2066]

One of the Greats from a Classic time in British Music. Sad to see the state of things today, They had the Look - The Songs - James Honeyman Scott a huge loss as was Pete. Great to see her Rockin On !!!

[@bonanzaman100]

She's the real deal and been a big, big fan since I started listening to her back in the 70's. So sensuous in her music.

[@LoveLife-wy8gt]

She is her own person . Everybody should be as strong.

[@tattyshoesshigure5731]

About 2/3rds of the way through her book & finding it a fascinating read. She certainly paid her dues before finally fulfilling her dream of playing in a band and making a success of it. Very honest lady, who has an interesting, witty, entertaining & illustrative style of writing

[@icelight7054]

Saw her gig at the Hammersmith Odeon 2009,May ... she and the band kicked serious ass. Awesome live show. She got emotional a few times during the 2.5 hour set , the scar tissue of her life clearly connecting with certain songs. She and the band were superb. Martin Chambers still retaining his zest and the young axe men on bass and guitar were well cool. A real gem of a night and an honour to see her and the band ... ALL those hits ! That gig will live forever in the memory...and she is still one sexy lady.

[@pjay3392]

She is great. I'm from the UK and looking back with fondness when you consider the talent in the 1970's both in the USA & UK. Chrisse is much loved in London, she is part of the furniture :)

[@delphinaibarra482]

Yes on chrissy.she is one of my favorite people. On the music world.my. Oldest son turned me on to her music in the 80 s.he is now gone.and when I listen to her singing.i think of him.god bless and love u Crissy thank u for. The memories.

[@ihateyoumother-fucker3204]

P Jay:"part of the furniture" - too fucking right!

[@streetmach1]

Picked up reckless and could not put it down till the end. I lived 10 miles fom Akron during 70s -80s. The whole book I felt I was there with her. It was so real that I had so many similar experiences. I recommend especially if you lived through those times.

[@catherinewylie6959]

Her documentary Alone on Amazon Prime is pretty good. I lived in Akron for a few years so enjoyed her travels back home, to the woods, and old cemetery there. She's awesome. At least she has money to move, etc. I go nuts living in the same place after about three years. I do relocate a lot.

[@andrew2410]

I still remember meeting Chrissie with a group of friends in Newport, 1977. What a wonderful woman. So friendly. We invited the band to a neighbouring nightclub after the gig for a drink and a dance. Respect.

[@raysmith2940]

but they didn't turn up?

[@kima3565]

A genuinely beatiful human being that has seen the ugly cruelty of the world but rose above it to let her talent shine

[@ARIZJOE]

I am from Akron, and I have read the book. It's very accurate and even-handed. However, I wish the book was edited a little better, not for factual corrections but to give the book more coherence and chronological order. There are few dates in time given. Also, there is no index. And with software for that, all nonfiction books deserve an index. This girl was way ahead of the curve when she was a very young Firestone High student, and went to the Jeff Beck Group concert in Cleveland, and then to Rod Stewart's and Ron Wood's hotel room before people knew who they were. It was a tame party, but revealing in just how hip she was. Like Ms. Hynde, I read "NME" and "Melody Maker" in Akron to learn about the British pop scene. But once you got to London, it was different. Also, in its salad days, WMMS progressive radio in Cleveland was superior to any station anywhere perhaps, as she writes. It had an effect on lots of people. I was happy to know she appreciated the Ohio of her youth.

[@nancydeluca1574]

Here's another 1 from Akron, right here! Thank you for the info!!

[@michaelheery7427]

RED KNECY REGION.

[@audiophileman7047]

Even when I disagree with her, I really like the forthright way Chrissie Hynde speaks. I never get any inkling that she's being deceptive or is holding back. She is one of the most frank persons that I've ever seen in my life, and she's smart about a lot of things.

[@stevenharris716]

One of the best most positive attitudes ever! Inspirational!

[@LLS710]

How is it I have never seen a video of her talking when I've been a fan for 44 years??!! Her voice is deeper than I thought. I too have a wonderlust spirit and I'm in my 60s!!!

[@raffaojeda]

Crissie is a very honest human being, great singer, composer.

[@scottyh8494]

The thing I like about Chrissie is that she is so honest and genuine about her self and how she perceives the world or the people in her world. Her honesty is flawless.....

[@sbrown6798]

Scott Hornby totally agree.

[@kamelouichene9494]

CHRISSIE and her band, THE PRETENDERS, With the magic music, in introduction a film " Tunnel " and a rôle for a mythic actor, Helmut Berger

[@MrUSSAM]

Just read her book,, Un-filtered and one of the best Rock bios I ever read.. Thank You Chrissie

[@runner2008]

I just finished the book. A very good read. The title is fitting because she was very reckless growing up. She was a drifter and looking for that niche in life. And of course this is the 70s and I didn't know that she messed with drugs big time. I am glad she is still around today. Sadly her two bandmates succumbed to drugs, and way too young.

[@gooblenis656]

IMO the greatest female rocker ever; I'm mostly into prog rock and the blues, but the Pretenders 1st album is in my top 10 list...so much energy and great lyrics; I was lucky enough to see them in Toronto after their 2nd album came out and they were amazing...I was devastated when James H.S. passed away, he was my new guitar hero, right up there with Rory Gallagher, Jeff Beck, and Brian May....gotta get this book

[@johnglynhughes4239]

Totally agree 💯

[@robwalton7749]

Such an incredible person. I know how she feels I think, I still want to get a little band together. Once it's in your blood, it's there to stay. I just wish I had her talent and songwriting ability.

[@nevillecooper7541]

what a humbling person. really enjoyed her honesty ... and the book is great!

[@jasonwood3377]

Just finished her book and have to say it was an excellent read despite not being a huge fan of The Pretenders, I don’t dislike them it’s a kind of if they’re on the radio I’ll listen type thing. I couldn’t even say that I was a fan of Chrissie but after the book I have a big admiration for her drive and determination, she certainly put the work and hours in. I also enjoyed how she didn’t resort to a salacious gossip tabloid read, she just tells her story as it was. Word of advice if you’re thinking of getting the audiobook, in my opinion I wouldn’t recommend it, it’s read by Rosanna Arquette who’s voice is ok but can grate at times, it’s when she tries to do an English accent that made my arse cheeks clench so hard I nearly ingested the chair, it was like Michael Caine with a mouthful of gobstoppers and all of a sudden Dick Van Dyke didn’t seem so bad. Shame Chrissie herself didn’t read it as I like her tone but hey ho.

[@nick_john]

“Confidence is a bluff” This quote comes up in several of her interviews. Interesting.

[@terryfriend16]

Okay. Came back to say, I'm in the middle of this read and it is fantastic. I love how she honors her parents and her brother Terry. Her conundrum at Kent State University, her telling these stories are uplifting, true, and unabashed. The pictures are so welcoming. This is a fast read, "Reckless" Love it. It's just wonderful. Now...Part 2.

[@dealstogo2649]

Brilliant lady and wonderfully creative music. Thank you.

[@scotoram8400]

She Rocks

[@williamrichards1425]

Glad you didn't change the name "Pretenders" !

[@thinman8621]

An interviewer with questions that give us a little insight. Thank you.

[@stevekardos8646]

The good ol days of music! Society is supposed to progress as time goes by,but music now sucks,as radio goes,this group was a big impact on me for music! I don't know how the music scene is in the UK ,but the US , SUCKS! I remember in the 80's. 90's You could go to any pub. And all genres of music were playing ....take your pick...Now...Nothing but booty music or same ol songs here in Florida. Beach music played a million times over. Just saying. Miss the pretenders ! Thank God for Internet radio! Funny how musicians back then didn't think they were that good,but sounded amazing and now if you watch the voice they tell everyone that they are unbelievable, ????? Thanks for the great Songs and memories that go with it Chrissie!!!! A fellow Buckeye from Lorain!

[@paw-pp2ej]

I agree with you as far as the current music scene, one of the causes is technology . With music programs on computer today , any man & his dog can make "music", sample ,loop, steal others music , butcher it and call it your own . No need to have a musical bone in your body ... call yourself a dj. But there are many incredible young musicians out there . i.e. If you are "blessed" with genetic musical talent you will want/be driven , to play an instrument . I leave a few youtube videos ; kzbin.info/www/bejne/rXi4kJp9att9ick ft. Marcus King 21y/o, One of my favourite young bands, 3 Mexican sisters... speak english perfectly, Bass guitarist was 9 years old, could barely carry the bass guitar, +/- 4 years later, they are brilliant, multi instrumentalists, write their own fantastic music,all english lyrics, are on their 2nd album, beautiful, humble, extremely hard working kids, great parents .... They rock.... Opened for numerous "name" bands.. They play in the States often, but these are the immigrants one wants.... Been fantastic watching their progress ... they have "IT" .... : kzbin.info/www/bejne/nJKwYqB4lseUacU . kzbin.info/www/bejne/eaXVq6tjopxmeMU , Joanne Shaw Taylor kzbin.info/www/bejne/b2THp4OeaJh4pKc , Kids Cover 46 and 2 by Tool / O'Keefe Music Foundation ; kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4qufamPfNaUeZI , Foxes and Fossils Suite Judy Blue Eyes ; kzbin.info/www/bejne/iWOWh35nq56XeJo , Spanish Pirates - Senri Kawaguchi kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6ucdntoqL17opI , Larkin Poe - Mad As A Hatter kzbin.info/www/bejne/mniom5WAoN15ntU .......

[@ElfeMusik]

looking forward to .... !!!!!

[@SmackWaterJack001]

*IM SO IN LOVE WITH CHRISSIE* ...and have been for 40 years !!!

[@dennismcd707]

I just read her book, and of course watched the interview. I respect her for a lot of things, but it's the music that always draws me in. What a talent. I'm thankful for Brass In Pocket, as well as Boots Of Chinese Plastic. She can still write, and she can still rock.

[@spunkthecombo]

Great interview. Video is done very well, but there is a problem with the audio (roar). Thanks for posting.

[@michaelshifflett76]

"I was a bandleader".,Key word-LEADER!

[@markwilliamson4103]

Seen her city hall Sheffield in 1981 loved it hood singer

[@onlyjoetee]

I’m reading the book now,it very interesting,she was very lucky tho things just kinda fell into place for her,she had a record deal before a band name even,and record deals we were VERY hard to get

[@PochoNews]

Luv your music and please never stop.

[@timkingsemail]

Confidence is a bluff. Love it.

[@royferguson3909]

my truth too p.s. are you still alive virtual friend ?? from Canterbury U.K

[@glassslide]

She is fascinating on many levels, can't wait to read this book.

[@kevinjoseph517]

book is okay--not great..I dont understand why she didnt earn a living as a singer from age 16 or so.

[@reeb9016]

The Pretenders have always been a favorite of mine. Straight rock n roll. But this was the first interview with Chrissie that I've seen that I liked. Seemed she tried too hard when younger to be edgy. This seemed genuine. At least i liked seeing this side of her.

[@Karenann0313]

It was a great book!

[@reywilliamr]

Great times with Chrisse back in the Monkey palace days in Kent. I did appreciate the clean sink in spite of what she said.

[@jarodcarnarvon5198]

She is so sweet and so beautiful.

[@SLFinSF]

Dear Chrissie...Yes, it DOES last a long time. I first hear/saw you when I was in college in 1977 -- and I have never recovered. It seems you hate people saying they love you but - but -- sorry. Some of us really do.

[@MrBornagainzombie]

That was a great interview!

[@karenpotter3562]

I’m from maple Heights Ohio , right outside Cleveland ❤

[@allangow4746]

I read a Q and A with Chrisie, she was asked what made her sad ? She answered, ?"I believe you choose to be sad or not to be sad"

[@222Lightning]

you need money to keep moving.......a lot of things are about money. Trust me I would have traveled the planet if I had the money in my youth.

[@jimcryns5525]

Chrissie didn't seem to have much cash.

[@mozdickson]

Same. I'm 60 now and struggled to be fixed - 5 years in one place now, a record for me. Next time Im on a bus I'll look for Chrissie, as I'm the same. Go to a new city, jump on a bus, ride a bike aimlessly, etc etc. So good. opposite to tourism.

[@waveblast2]

Huge Success she is.

[@terryfriend16]

Just got this book, can't wait to read it. Love her, a true and unique bass player.

[@ianrobson9601]

Hereford, woop woop

[@guevarasalvadoreno3915]

me gustan tus canciones

[@nurknanker6105]

Love her analogy of running through the hole in the fenceNatural storyteller.

[@jalijali8448]

Love her,cant wait to read it

[@equisequis.55]

She still looks good for her age

[@JM-dv1zq]

I love her !

[@MightyMick88]

This interview needs sub titles, what he say Harry??

[@SW-fn7cl]

She seems really cool no pretension

[@johnoberle9750]

Beautiful woman!

[@vincentkosik403]

Nice interview, interesting listening to her story...sounds like a good read

[@markwilliamson4103]

Good singer

[@scotoram8400]

Tough Lady

[@marianneginalski7564]

I just loved the book.

[@jonesy2111]

She is one of the greats no doubt about it

[@dannyd1572]

I had no idea Blake Shelton had an interview show.

[@mark8827]

Remix what ?x

[@MoonChicken1]

Shes amazing.

[@xtraflo]

She's Amazing !

[@patrickjordan6710]

I love her

[@jenniferbeatty7545]

'There's no peace... for the wicked.'

[@Darkwell0071]

Voice of a lifetime ten cent head.

[@Cyndimansfield]

What a great woman . ! Love her personality. !

[@YouzTube99]

Ironic that someone this honest names her band 'The Pretenders'.

[@chuckcoates3594]

CH as a meat eater from Texas. I dig your music. Keep On Keeping On.

[@dcasey2574]

I love Chrissie and the Pretenders and I'm near the end of her book. But it has been a struggle getting through it. Chrissie is a fantastic musician, singer . . . . but she can't write. I really wish this book had been a biography and not an auto-biography.

[@1970borntorun]

dan casey She's apparently a very boring interview too lol

[@vanstan7929]

She can write better than you can talk

[@kkdeveauxgue262]

I'm from Youngstown Ohio,and my cousin lived in Akron,I didn't like it because it was way...to layed back for me, Youngstown wasn't any better,but at the time she was going back n forth from somewhere,but they would just announce she was coming home,blah blah blah

[@btsdancestudio5691]

She looks like age 45 @ Age 70

[@guevarasalvadoreno3915]

eres muy guapa

[@landlinesandpercolators8822]

Book is great. She's great.

[@jasonfiutem1844]

Christie Henderson is cool

[@drackkor725]

Bummer seeing her so old I look like crap at 49 but hard to see one of your favorites growing up look like this like all my artists from the 80's Father time always wins :(

[@MultiMrPhill]

+Drackkor I saw her last year in an Italian Cafe here in London, and Madam looked as delicious as the Lunch she was being served...!

[@chefidel4314]

Really? I think she really looks sexy

[@cynthiap7741]

Shes in her 60s and looks good.

[@220773]

Scotland rules. (Except the Celtic lot, obviously).

[@MightyMick88]

Why can't I meet a woman like that

[@lesleystorey3917]

brass in pocket

[@robertmelia3780]

Ledge. X

[@scotoram8400]

So funny with the thick sotaque

[@josebelindo1641]

x

[@poolieboy6403]

What a lovely woman!

[@marnieotto5353]

goddess!!!

[@scotoram8400]

so come it's so obvious

[@jesusperez6383]

I surrender crisis goddess poprock💋♥️👠

[@scotoram8400]

I just want to say

[@455Transam]

Very restless person.........constantly in search of something....

[@octaviasmothe]

😂😂😂😂 she looks like Patsy from Ab-fab!!

[@giab1188]

Patsy is more fascinating. Chrissy is boring....no talent except for trying to look like Keith Richards...spot on but she is more masculine

[@vanstan7929]

@@giab1188 Don’t talk like an absolute fucking tit.

[@edmcdonnell602]

Chrissie is both very honest and perhaps overly modest about her journey to success. The key for me is that she is unique and an enigma. She also possesses principles that guide her like a credo. She would fail rather than compromise her principles.