1987 Original Still in shrink wrap with custom inner sleeve. "The Singles" by The Pretenders is a compilation album that captures the band’s evolution through the early and mid-1980s. Featuring tracks recorded between 1979 and 1986, the album showcases the group’s ability to fuse punk, new wave, and pop influences, with Chrissie Hynde’s distinct vocals at the forefront. Songs such as "Brass in Pocket," "Back on the Chain Gang," and "Don't Get Me Wrong" illustrate not only their chart successes but also their adaptability through lineup changes and shifting musical trends. "The Singles" reached audiences during a period when greatest hits collections were popular, providing both longtime fans and new listeners with a cohesive overview of the band's most influential years. The band weathered personal and professional upheavals, including the loss of founding members James Honeyman-Scott and Pete Farndon, and yet managed to maintain both critical and commercial acclaim. This compilation serves as a testament to Hynde’s enduring vision and the band’s resilience, curating a track list that became a touchstone for understanding their impact. As the 1980s drew to a close, "The Singles" not only celebrated The Pretenders’ past but also cemented their place as a transatlantic force in rock music.