Written and Photographed by: Lisa Melograno
On Sunday, July 14th, The Pretenders, with Chrissie Hynde leading on vocals and guitar, Kris Sonne on drums, Dave Page rocking the bass, and James Walbourne completing the lineup on guitar, captivated a sold-out crowd at Philadelphia’s historic Fillmore. The venue’s intimate and lively vibe, steeped in rich history, contributed to the evening’s enchantment. Fans, primarily aged forty and older, turned up in jeans and a variety of ’80s band t-shirts, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that transported attendees back to the golden age of rock.
The Pretenders’ exhilarating performance at The Fillmore was a masterclass in stage presence and raw musical talent. The intimate setting of the venue allowed fans to fully immerse themselves in the band’s captivating sound as they delivered hit after hit with palpable passion and energy. Their chemistry on stage was undeniable, and as the show unfolded, it became clear that The Pretenders’ status as rock legends was as solid as ever, leaving an indelible impression on the hearts of those lucky enough to witness their unforgettable performance at the Fillmore.
From the electrifying first note to the final round of applause, the band’s dynamic performance captivated the audience. Chrissie Hynde’s iconic voice, with her undeniable stage presence, was phenomenally complemented by James Walbourne‘s electrifying guitar riffs, Dave Page’s rich, pulsating bass lines, and the thunderous beats from Kris Sonne on the drums. The synergy of their skilled talent reaffirmed their legendary status in the world of rock, proving that they remain as vibrant and powerful as ever.
Kicking off the night with “Losing My Sense of Taste,” the band immediately showcased their iconic sound and captivating stage presence. As they transitioned seamlessly into “A Love,” the crowd was treated to a powerful testament to The Pretenders’ unique sound and enduring chemistry. The atmosphere buzzed with increasing energy during the performances of “Turf Accountant” and “Hate for Sale,” setting the stage for a vibrant sing-along from the audience to the timeless classics “Kid” and “Precious.”
The Pretenders’ setlist served as a sonic journey through their storied career, with each song evoking a wave of nostalgia that created an emotional resonance throughout the audience. The performance of “The Buzz” offered a nuanced, mellow vibe, engaging the audience with its intricate melodies, while “My City Was Gone” prompted a moment of reflection on the band’s enduring legacy and their contributions to music.
Chrissie’s rapport with the audience added a personal touch to the evening, as she unveiled a pink box and tossed a gift to the crowd after concluding their set. This simple gesture exemplified the connection between The Pretenders and their fans, as Chrissie’s warmth and charisma radiated throughout the venue. The fans, not willing to let the night end, chanted for an encore, and The Pretenders obliged.
The concert reached a thrilling climax with a two-part encore that showcased The Pretenders at their absolute best. The first encore ignited with the raw emotional appeal of “Stop Your Sobbing,” followed by the melodic resonance of “Back on the Chain Gang,” and then seamlessly transitioned into “Let the Sun Come In,” from their new album “Relentless,” crafting a blend of classic sounds and vibrant melodies that resonated with the audience. This set the perfect stage for the second encore, amplifying the anticipation for what was to come.
As anticipation built, The Pretenders returned to the stage for their second encore, unleashing “Mystery Achievement” in a powerhouse performance that solidified the night as unforgettable. This final song, with its driving beat and compelling rhythm, encapsulated the band’s dynamic range and musical prowess, leaving the audience in awe. The strategic arrangement of these encores, from the emotive beginning to the robust conclusion, highlighted The Pretenders’ mastery in creating a dynamic musical journey, providing a performance that was rich in depth and profoundly gratifying.
As I turned to leave for the night, I spotted a group of ardent fans approaching the stage, seeking keepsakes from the stagehands. Much like The Pretenders concerts of the ’80s that I had attended, a stagehand with a broad smile began distributing setlists and guitar picks to the fastest hands reaching forward. In that instant, the crowd, many of whom were of middle age and beyond, momentarily recaptured the exuberance of their teenage selves, alight with youth and excitement.
The strong bond They share with their fans ensures every performance is as captivating as their debut, fortifying their perpetual mark on the rock and roll genre. Their concerts stand as a vivid showcase of their immense talent and their unbreakable connection with the audience, affirming that their passion and energy remain as vibrant and profound as ever. The Pretenders continue to serve as a reminder of the power of live music, proving that rock and roll will always thrive and connect people through shared experiences and unforgettable performances.
