The Pretenders are coming to the Wynn, bringing their iconic sound and timeless hits for a night of unforgettable rock music and electric live energy.
The PRETENDERS bridge the gap between punk, new wave, and pop music like no other band. They feature genre-defining songs such as “I’ll Stand By You,” “Back on the Chain Gang,” and “Don’t Get Me Wrong.” The band has sold over 25 million albums, with founder and leader Chrissie Hynde regarded as one of contemporary music’s greatest songwriters. Following the release of the unflinchingly headstrong “Alone” album in 2016 The PRETENDERS continue to perform alongside iconic acts such as Fleetwood Mac/Stevie Nicks, Guns N’ Roses, Simple Minds, Kamasi Washington, and The Specials, delivering some of the most thrilling live performances of the decade. In 2025, they celebrate the 45th anniversary of their self-titled debut album.
THE PRETENDERS – ROCK AND ROLL LEGENDS
Prepare for a potent dose of rock and roll rebellion tempered with melodic brilliance as the iconic Pretenders, fronted by the indomitable Chrissie Hynde, are set to command the stage of a distinguished entertainment venue in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. This upcoming concert promises a thrilling journey through their influential catalog, a testament to their enduring status as a band that seamlessly blends punk grit, new wave cool, and timeless pop sensibility. Fans can anticipate a raw, energetic, and deeply authentic live experience led by one of rock’s most distinctive and enduring voices.
The Pretenders emerged from the vibrant late 1970s London punk and new wave scene, a crucible of musical innovation. Formed in 1978 by the American expatriate Chrissie Hynde, the initial lineup, featuring guitarist James Honeyman-Scott, bassist Pete Farndon, and drummer Martin Chambers, quickly forged a unique and instantly recognizable sound. Hynde’s commanding stage presence, her distinctive vocal delivery that could shift effortlessly from vulnerable to defiant, and the band’s sharp, concise songwriting set them apart from their contemporaries.
Their self-titled debut album in 1980 was a seismic event, a collection of lean, spiky, and undeniably catchy singles that catapulted them to international fame. Tracks like the swaggering “Brass in Pocket,” the yearning “Kid,” and their raw take on Ray Davies’ “Stop Your Sobbing” established them as a force to be reckoned with, bridging the gap between the raw energy of punk and the melodic hooks of pop. The album is now widely regarded as one of the greatest debut albums in rock history.
The Pretenders continued their impressive run with Pretenders II in 1981, featuring standouts like “Talk of the Town” and “Message of Love,” further cementing their status as hitmakers with substance. However, tragedy struck the band in the early 1980s with the drug-related deaths of Honeyman-Scott and Farndon. Despite this devastating loss, Chrissie Hynde persevered, determined to keep the Pretenders’ spirit alive.
The band continued with various lineups throughout the 1980s and beyond, with Hynde remaining the unwavering core and creative force. Albums like Learning to Crawl (1984), featuring the enduring ballad “I’ll Stand by You” and the powerful “Middle of the Road,” and Get Close (1986), which included the infectious “Don’t Get Me Wrong,” demonstrated Hynde’s resilience and her continued ability to craft compelling and commercially successful music.
Known for their no-nonsense attitude and their commitment to delivering powerful live performances, a Pretenders concert is an experience that stays with you. Hynde’s magnetic stage presence, her unmistakable voice, and the band’s tight musicianship create an electrifying atmosphere. Expect a setlist that seamlessly blends their iconic early hits with gems from their extensive back catalog, all delivered with the raw energy and genuine passion that have defined their enduring career.
This upcoming engagement in Las Vegas offers a prime opportunity to witness a true rock and roll legend in action. Situated within a sophisticated venue renowned for its exceptional acoustics, the setting promises an immersive and unforgettable concert experience. Fans can anticipate a night of timeless anthems, powerful vocals, and the enduring spirit of a band that has left an indelible mark on the history of rock music. Prepare to be captivated by the unmistakable sound and unwavering presence of The Pretenders.