Never Do That

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Never Do That" by The Pretenders from their 1990 album Packed!, and the Zoo Freaks are loving this vibrant track. This song, one of the singles from the album, showcases Chrissie Hynde’s signature blend of raw energy and melodic hooks. In a 1990 interview with Rolling Stone, Hynde described "Never Do That" as a reflection on staying true to oneself, with lyrics urging against betraying personal values. The song’s upbeat tempo and jangly guitars made it a radio favorite, though it didn’t chart as high as some of the band’s earlier hits like "Brass in Pocket." Interestingly, the music video for "Never Do That" featured Hynde in a minimalist setting, emphasizing her commanding presence, which fans on the Pretenders’ official Facebook page often cite as a highlight of the era. A post on the Pretenders’ X account in 2020 celebrated the album’s 30th anniversary, noting that "Never Do That" was a favorite during their live performances in the early ’90s.

Another tidbit about "Never Do That" comes from its recording process. Packed! was a unique album for The Pretenders, as Chrissie Hynde was the only official band member featured, with session musicians like guitarist Billy Bremner and bassist John McKenzie filling out the lineup. In a 2016 interview with The Guardian, Hynde admitted that Packed! felt like a solo project, but she used The Pretenders’ name to honor the band’s legacy. Fans on the Pretenders’ fan website have shared stories of hearing "Never Do That" live during the 1990 tour, describing how Hynde’s emotive delivery brought the song’s message to life. The Pretenders’ Instagram occasionally shares throwback photos from the Packed! era, with one post highlighting a rare vinyl single of "Never Do That" that collectors in fan groups, like the Pretenders Fans Facebook group, eagerly discuss.

The Pretenders, led by the indomitable Chrissie Hynde, got their start in 1978 in London, though Hynde hails from Akron, Ohio. Born on September 7, 1951, Hynde moved to London in 1973, immersing herself in the punk scene and briefly associating with early versions of bands like The Clash and The Damned. Her big break came when Dave Hill of Anchor Records heard her demo tapes and encouraged her to form a band. Hynde recruited James Honeyman-Scott (guitar), Pete Farndon (bass), and Martin Chambers (drums), naming the group after The Platters’ song "The Great Pretender," inspired by Sam Cooke’s version. Their debut single, a cover of The Kinks’ "Stop Your Sobbing," hit the UK charts in 1979, followed by the iconic "Brass in Pocket," which topped the UK charts in 1980. The band’s self-titled debut album was a critical and commercial success, blending punk’s edge with pop sensibilities. Despite tragedies, including the drug-related deaths of Honeyman-Scott and Farndon in the early ’80s, Hynde kept The Pretenders alive, evolving their sound while maintaining her fierce, independent spirit.

For more on The Pretenders, check out their official website for tour dates, discography, and videos. Stay connected with the band through their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share updates and engage with fans. The Pretenders’ fan website offers a deep dive into the band’s history, with fan stories and rare photos. The Pretenders Fans Facebook group is a lively community where Zoo Freaks can join discussions, share memorabilia, and celebrate the band’s enduring legacy.