Rock legend Chrissie Hynde is set to release her new album, *Duets Special*, on October 17. This exciting record features collaborations with 13 artists, including Brandon Flowers, Debbie Harry, and the late Mark Lanegan. Hynde, known as the founder and sole member of the Pretenders, has created a unique collection of duets.
The first track, “Always On My Mind,” features Rufus Wainwright and was made available on streaming platforms on August 13. Fans can grab the album in vinyl, CD, or digital formats through Rhino Records.
Hynde shared that the idea for a duets album came to her in 2023 during a phone call with Jörn, Wainwright’s husband. They were chatting about books when she suggested collaborating with Rufus.
The album features stripped-down versions of well-known songs. Mark Lanegan covers “Can’t Help Falling In Love,” while Brandon Flowers takes on “I’m Not In Love.” A special moment occurs when Julian Lennon joins for The Beatles’ classic “It’s Only Love.” Depeche Mode’s Dave Gahan lends his voice to “Dolphins,” and Cat Power sings “First of the Gang to Die.”
This marks the fourth time Hynde has ventured out on her own, having last paid tribute to Bob Dylan in 2021 with “Standing In The Doorway.” The Pretenders released their album *Relentless* in 2023 and recently wrapped up a world tour with Foo Fighters and Guns N’ Roses, concluding with a performance at São Paulo’s C6 Festival on May 24.
*Duets Special* will be released by Parlophone Records, and fans can preorder their copies now through online stores.
