When Chrissie Hynde, singer‑songwriter and frontwoman of The Pretenders, announced her new project, the buzz was instant.
Set for a worldwide drop on , Chrissie Hynde & Pals – Duets Special global release pairs the rock legend with a roster of surprising guests, from Debbie Harry of Blondie to Dave Gahan of Depeche Mode, and the genre‑bending Rufus Wainwright. The album, a 13‑track collection of "beautifully arranged" duets, will be distributed by Rhino Records and is already available for pre‑order.
Background: Hynde’s Solo Journey
After a decade of touring with The Pretenders, Hynde slipped back into the studio for a solo venture that surprised even her most devoted fans. Her 2022 effort, Standing in the Doorway, saw her reinterpret Bob Dylan’s catalog alongside guitarist James Walbourne. That collaboration hinted at a willingness to dive beyond the familiar rock terrain.
Industry insiders note that Hynde’s solo streak reflects a larger trend: legacy artists using duets to bridge generations and revive catalog sales. "It’s a clever way to stay relevant while honoring one’s roots," says music analyst Maria Delgado of Billboard. The Duets Special continues that formula, but on a grander, more pop‑infused scale.
Duets Special: What We Know
Rhino Records confirmed the album will feature 13 tracks, each a collaborative effort that blends Hynde’s signature gritty vocals with the distinct styles of her partners. Although the full tracklist remains under wraps, the single "Always On My Mind"—a fresh take on the classic—has already generated chatter on streaming platforms.
Critics who heard a sneak‑preview describe the production as "lush yet stripped‑back," a balance that lets each guest shine without drowning out Hynde’s unmistakable tone. Producer Tony Visconti (who famously worked with David Bowie) is rumored to be behind the console, though official credits await the album’s liner notes.
- Release date: 17 Oct 2025
- Label: Rhino Records
- Number of tracks: 13 duets
- Lead single: "Always On My Mind"
- Pre‑order available via Chrissie Hynde’s official site
Spotlight on Collaborators
Debbie Harry, whose career spans nearly five decades, brings a new wave swagger to the table. In a brief interview, she mentioned, "Chrissie and I have always admired each other’s fire; doing this together feels like a celebration of that energy."
Dave Gahan, long‑time frontman of Depeche Mode, adds a darker, synth‑laden edge. "Working with Chrissie is like stepping into a different universe," he laughed, hinting that his contribution may involve a reimagined version of a classic synth anthem.
Rufus Wainwright, known for his baroque pop sensibilities, is expected to lend his intricate piano work to a ballad that, according to insiders, could become the album’s emotional centerpiece.
Beyond these headline names, the album reportedly includes surprise guests from indie, country, and even hip‑hop spheres—though their identities remain locked until the official rollout.
Production, Release & Promotion
The recording sessions spanned several cities, from London’s iconic Abbey Road Studios to a converted barn in upstate New York. "We wanted spaces that felt intimate yet iconic," notes a source close to the production team.
Marketing tactics include a series of limited‑edition vinyl pressings, each adorned with artwork hand‑drawn by Hynde’s longtime visual collaborator Katherine McCoy. Additionally, a mini‑documentary titled "Pals in the Studio" will debut on Rhino’s YouTube channel the week before the release.
Fans can expect a wave of live performances at select festivals in 2026, where Hynde may bring her collaborators on stage for surprise duets. The potential for a televised awards‑show appearance has also been floated, given the star‑power involved.
What This Means for Fans and the Industry
For longtime Pretenders followers, the album offers a fresh look at Hynde’s vocal versatility. "It’s a reminder that great singers can adapt to any genre," says longtime fan Jenna Liu from Brooklyn.
From a business perspective, the project could boost Rhino Records’ streaming numbers dramatically. The label’s recent quarterly report highlighted a 12% rise in catalog streams after high‑profile collaborations, suggesting that "Duets Special" may be a strategic win‑win for both artist and distributor.
Finally, the record underscores a broader cultural moment: celebrated musicians partnering across eras to create something both nostalgic and new. Whether the album tops charts or simply adds a pleasant detour to Hynde’s discography, its very existence signals that collaboration remains a potent tool in an ever‑changing music market.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where can I pre‑order the album?
Pre‑orders opened on September 1, 2025 via Chrissie Hynde’s official website and Rhino Records’ online store. Physical copies ship worldwide from October 5, 2025.
Which artists are featured besides the three announced?
While the label kept the full roster under wraps, insiders say the album also includes a folk legend, an emerging R&B vocalist, and a surprise cameo from a classic rock guitarist. Full details will be revealed on the album’s release day.
What genre does the album primarily explore?
The record blends rock, pop, and synth‑driven sounds, reflecting each collaborator’s background. Critics describe it as a "genre‑fluid" collection that still centers on Hynde’s classic rock roots.
Will there be a tour to support the duets album?
Yes. Hynde plans a limited‑run tour hitting major festivals in 2026, with several guest artists slated to join her onstage for specific songs.
How does this project compare to Hynde’s previous solo work?
Unlike the Dylan‑covers of Standing in the Doorway, the duets album is original material and heavily collaborative, showcasing Hynde’s willingness to blend her voice with a broader musical palette.
