Chrissie Hynde and her band, the Pretenders, recently electrified Ohio with a series of dynamic performances, including two sold-out hometown shows in Akron and a high-energy opening set for the Foo Fighters in Cincinnati. This Ohio homecoming showcased the band’s enduring appeal, blending classic hits with fresh material from their latest albums.
Hynde, a proud Akron native, shared a nostalgic photo of her childhood home on social media before the first Goodyear Theater show, setting the stage for an emotional return. The two Akron performances were a testament to the band’s enduring connection with their fans, featuring 27-song setlists that spanned their four-decade career.
The band’s current lineup, featuring the exceptionally talented guitarist James Walbourne, delivered powerful renditions of tracks from their recent albums, Relentless (2023) and Hate for Sale (2020), alongside fan favorites from their iconic 1980 self-titled debut. Walbourne’s guitar work added a rich layer of depth and texture to the band’s already impressive sound.
Hometown Performances Resonate with Fans and Chrissie Hynde
Hynde, visibly moved by the warm reception in her hometown, described the experience as a “class reunion” and admitted to feeling more nervous than usual performing in front of friends and family. Despite the pre-show jitters, she commanded the stage with her signature charisma and powerful vocals. She also playfully chastised the audience for their cellphone use, urging them to engage with the live performance rather than their screens.
The setlists for the two Akron shows offered a diverse mix of classic Pretenders hits and newer material, highlighting the band’s ongoing evolution. Interestingly, Hynde remained true to her recent commitment to focus on less-played tracks, omitting mega-hits like “Brass in Pocket” and “Middle of the Road.” This decision, however, didn’t seem to faze the enthusiastic crowd, who were clearly captivated by the band’s performance. The second Akron show saw the band swap out three songs from the previous night’s setlist, adding ’80s favorites “Talk of the Town,” “Thumbelina,” and “Tattooed Love Boys,” further showcasing their deep catalog.
Pretenders Open for Foo Fighters in Cincinnati
Following the Akron shows, the Pretenders traveled to Cincinnati to open for the Foo Fighters at the Great American Ball Park. Sharing the bill with Mammoth WVH, who had also performed a headline set in Cleveland the previous night, the Pretenders tailored their setlist for the stadium audience. While still featuring a significant portion of new material, they included more familiar hits, culminating in a rousing performance of “Middle of the Road” as the set closer.
Chrissie Hynde and The Pretenders: A Legacy of Powerful Music
The Ohio shows underscore Chrissie Hynde’s enduring legacy as a rock icon and the Pretenders’ continued relevance in the music scene. Their ability to seamlessly blend new material with beloved classics demonstrates their artistic depth and unwavering connection with their fans. This blend of old and new keeps their music fresh and exciting, ensuring that the Pretenders remain a vital force in the rock world.
A Deeper Dive into the Pretenders’ Setlists
The Akron performances offered a unique insight into the band’s evolution, with the setlists emphasizing the strength of their recent work while still paying homage to their classic hits. The inclusion of tracks like “My City Was Gone,” a song inspired by Hynde’s reflections on Akron’s changing landscape, added a poignant touch to the hometown shows.
The Cincinnati setlist, designed for a larger stadium audience opening for the Foo Fighters, strategically balanced fan favorites with newer tracks. This approach allowed the band to introduce their recent material to a wider audience while still delivering the hits that cemented their status as rock legends.
Chrissie Hynde: A Hometown Hero
Hynde’s return to Akron was more than just a concert; it was a homecoming. Her visible emotion and interaction with the audience highlighted the deep connection she maintains with her roots. Her playful banter about cellphones and her heartfelt comments about her hometown added a personal touch to the performances, making the experience even more memorable for the fans.
The Pretenders’ Enduring Appeal
The Pretenders’ ability to maintain their relevance across decades is a testament to their musical prowess and Chrissie Hynde’s enduring charisma. Their recent Ohio performances are proof that their music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Hynde’s return to her roots was a highlight of the Ohio tour.
The Pretenders delivered high-energy performances throughout their Ohio tour.
The Pretenders and the Future of Rock
The Pretenders’ continued success, as evidenced by their recent Ohio performances, suggests a bright future for the band. Their willingness to embrace new musical directions while staying true to their core sound ensures that they will remain a vital force in the rock landscape for years to come.
Conclusion: The Pretenders’ Ohio Triumph
The Pretenders’ Ohio shows were a resounding success, demonstrating the band’s enduring appeal and Chrissie Hynde’s unwavering connection to her hometown. These performances were not just concerts; they were a celebration of a remarkable career and a testament to the power of music to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. From the intimate setting of the Goodyear Theater to the grand stage of the Great American Ball Park, the Pretenders delivered unforgettable performances that will resonate with fans for years to come.
FAQ
Q: What was the significance of the Pretenders’ Akron shows?
A: The Akron shows were a homecoming for Chrissie Hynde, allowing her to connect with her roots and perform for friends and family in a deeply personal setting.
Q: How did the setlists differ between the Akron and Cincinnati shows?
A: The Akron shows focused on a broader mix of songs from the band’s catalog, while the Cincinnati setlist, designed for a stadium audience opening for the Foo Fighters, leaned more heavily on well-known hits.
Q: What is the future of the Pretenders?
A: The Pretenders’ recent performances demonstrate their ongoing vitality and suggest a bright future for the band, continuing to create and perform impactful music.
We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences about the Pretenders’ Ohio shows in the comments below.
