Chrissie Hynde has publicly addressed her feelings regarding fans at live shows, providing clarity on her previous controversial statements made last October. In her recent remarks, she expressed her discomfort with the current trend of recording performances on mobile devices, which she equates to a sense of being stalked. This pervasive behavior has led her to contemplate stepping away from her music career entirely, highlighting the emotional toll it takes on her as an artist.

As the frontwoman of The Pretenders, Hynde is among a growing number of musicians advocating for a more engaged concert experience that doesn’t involve constant phone usage. She encourages fans to allow new attendees the opportunity to enjoy the front rows, fostering a more inclusive atmosphere for all concert-goers.

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Reflecting on her experiences, Hynde shared, ?What a year! We had a fantastic tour thanks to you, our dedicated audience.? She emphasized the importance of fan support, stating that without them, the band would not be able to thrive. Her heartfelt appreciation underscores the mutual connection between artists and their fans, which is a vital part of live music culture.

In her candid social media post, she expressed regret over her inability to adapt to the modern culture of mobile phone use during concerts. ?I?ve often scolded and criticized the very audience that supports us,? she admitted. Hynde acknowledged that the distraction of phones often leads to her feeling overwhelmed and questioning whether she should continue performing. ?It?s a nightly struggle for me, but my passion for the band and love for live music keeps me going, even when I feel overwhelmed.?

Hynde highlighted that many artists, such as Bob Dylan, implement strict phone policies, requiring fans to keep their devices sealed while inside the venue. She noted that The Pretenders consistently post reminders asking fans to refrain from using their phones during performances, yet some attendees still find it hard to resist the urge to capture the moment.

Feeling perplexed and remorseful about the situation, she pointed out that while pop artists actively encourage phone usage for social media engagement, The Pretenders embrace a different ethos. ?We?re a rock band, and that should be evident,? she stated firmly, emphasizing the artistic intent behind their music and performances.

Encouraging New Faces in the Front Rows at Concerts

Hynde acknowledged that her comments regarding front-row fans may have unintentionally offended some listeners. However, she reiterated her hope that those who have attended multiple shows would allow new fans the chance to experience the excitement of being up front. ?While we love seeing familiar faces, it?s essential to provide opportunities for local fans to enjoy the experience too,? she explained. This sentiment fosters a sense of community and fairness among concert attendees.

She concluded her message by expressing gratitude to her fans for their unwavering support and thoughtful gifts throughout the year. ?Thank you once again for making this a memorable year for me, the entire band, and our wonderful crew,? she remarked, reinforcing the bond that exists between artists and their audience.