Rock icon Chrissie Hynde has announced a new studio album, Duets Special, set for release on October 17 via Parlophone. The album, credited to Chrissie Hynde & Pals, features a stunning roster of 13 collaborations with celebrated artists, including k.d. lang, the late Mark Lanegan, Dave Gahan, Cat Power, and Brandon Flowers. The first single from the album, a cover of "Always On My Mind" featuring Rufus Wainwright, is available now.
The idea for the album came about in a spontaneous conversation with Wainwright's husband, Jörn. "I never thought about doing a Duets album before," Hynde said. "I think the idea came about in 2023... For some reason I said hey, maybe Rufus and I should do something, and quickly scribbled out 10 songs off the top of my head."
Duets Special celebrates 13 distinct voices through stripped-down, intimate arrangements. The album's unifying theme is a focus on "great melodies," and it showcases Hynde's powerful voice alongside her collaborators in a refined, minimal setting.
This new record marks an exciting turn in one of the most creative periods of Hynde's career. The album closely follows The Pretenders' critically acclaimed record, Relentless, and a subsequent world tour. In addition to her musical work, Hynde has also gained recognition for her painting, with her artwork exhibited in London and New York.
Duets Special will be available on black vinyl LP, CD, and all streaming platforms. The album promises a captivating journey through classic and modern songs, reimagined by some of the most iconic voices in music.
