“Brass in Pocket,” released in 1979 by The Pretenders, is one of the most memorable and enduring songs of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Written by the band’s frontwoman Chrissie Hynde, the track became an international hit and is often regarded as one of the band’s defining songs. The song’s catchy melody, distinctive blend of new wave and punk rock influences, and bold, confident lyrics made it stand out in the vibrant music scene of the time.
This article delves into the creation, themes, success, and lasting impact of “Brass in Pocket.” We will explore the song’s lyrics, its role in shaping The Pretenders’ legacy, and its cultural significance within the larger context of the late 1970s and early 1980s rock music landscape. Through an analysis of its music, performance, and place in popular culture, we’ll uncover why “Brass in Pocket” remains a timeless classic.
The Origins of The Pretenders
Before the release of “Brass in Pocket,” The Pretenders were still finding their footing in the music world. The band was formed in 1978 in London by Chrissie Hynde, an American musician who had previously lived in London and was influenced by the burgeoning punk rock scene. Hynde’s background in music journalism and her time spent working for NME gave her a unique perspective on the music industry, and she was determined to form a band that would fuse her love of punk rock, new wave, and pop music.
The initial lineup of The Pretenders included Hynde on vocals and rhythm guitar, guitarist James Honeyman-Scott, bassist Pete Farndon, and drummer Martin Chambers. The group quickly developed a unique sound, combining the raw energy of punk with catchy pop hooks, and they became known for their distinctive blend of styles. Hynde’s gritty voice, coupled with her powerful presence and biting lyrics, made her an iconic frontwoman, and her songwriting quickly became the cornerstone of the band’s identity.
After a series of early demos and performances, The Pretenders signed with Sire Records and began recording their debut album. The first album, titled Pretenders, was released in January 1980, and it included some of the band’s most beloved songs, including “Brass in Pocket.” The song was not just a highlight of the album, but it also became the band’s breakthrough hit, catapulting them into the international spotlight.
“Brass in Pocket”: The Song and Its Creation
“Brass in Pocket” was written by Chrissie Hynde, who drew inspiration from her own experiences and emotions. The title “Brass in Pocket” refers to having money in one’s pocket, but it carries a deeper meaning in the context of the song. Brass, in this case, can symbolize a sense of confidence or swagger, representing both financial security and the attitude of a person who knows they have something to offer, whether it be material wealth or an inner sense of self-assurance.
Hynde wrote the song during a time of personal and creative reflection. The lyrics reflect themes of empowerment, desire, and the feeling of being ready to take on the world. In the song, the protagonist speaks with a sense of self-assurance, stating that they are “gonna make you see” and that they’ve “got brass in pocket.” The confident tone of the lyrics, combined with the driving rhythm of the music, creates a sense of swagger and determination, and the song became an anthem of independence and self-reliance.
“Brass in Pocket” was recorded in the late 1970s and early 1980s during The Pretenders’ first sessions with renowned producer Chris Thomas. Thomas, who had worked with artists like The Sex Pistols and Elton John, helped the band shape their sound, blending punk influences with more accessible pop melodies. The production of the track is relatively sparse, with a driving rhythm section, a memorable guitar riff, and Hynde’s commanding vocals at the forefront.
The track features an instantly recognizable, catchy guitar riff that complements the upbeat nature of the song. The rhythm section, with Martin Chambers on drums and Pete Farndon on bass, drives the song forward with a pulsating, almost tribal energy. Hynde’s vocals are a central element of the track, and her delivery is both assertive and seductive, lending the song a raw, emotional quality.
The Themes of “Brass in Pocket”
Lyrically, “Brass in Pocket” is a bold statement of confidence and self-assurance. The song speaks to the desire to stand out, to take control of one’s life, and to embrace the feeling of having something to prove. The protagonist is someone who is ready to take charge of their destiny, with lyrics like “I’m special, so special” and “I’m gonna make you see.” These lines reflect a sense of self-belief that was particularly resonant in the late 1970s and early 1980s, an era defined by the rise of punk and new wave music, which encouraged individuality and rebellion.
The line “I’ve got brass in pocket” can be interpreted as a metaphor for both financial independence and emotional confidence. “Brass” represents not just physical money but also a sense of inner wealth—confidence in one’s abilities, attractiveness, or personality. The song expresses the desire to use that inner wealth to make an impression and to take action. It’s about owning one’s power and using it to assert control over one’s life, whether in a romantic or professional context.
The song’s confidence and boldness are further emphasized by the infectious melody and upbeat tempo. The music mirrors the energy and determination of the lyrics, creating a track that is both empowering and catchy. The balance between the song’s swaggering attitude and its pop sensibilities helped make “Brass in Pocket” an anthem for many listeners, especially women who found the song’s assertiveness to be empowering.
Commercial Success and Cultural Impact
Upon its release, “Brass in Pocket” quickly became a hit, both in the United States and the United Kingdom. The song reached No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and topped the charts in the U.K., where it became The Pretenders’ first major commercial success. The song’s popularity was a testament to its universal appeal, blending punk rock’s raw energy with the accessibility of pop music. It was a pivotal moment in the history of new wave music, which was characterized by its ability to cross over into the mainstream.
The song’s success was also due to its perfect alignment with the cultural moment of the late 1970s and early 1980s. The era was marked by a desire for self-expression and independence, which made “Brass in Pocket” resonate deeply with a wide audience. Hynde’s confident, no-nonsense persona appealed to listeners who were eager for music that reflected their own struggles, aspirations, and sense of individuality.
“Brass in Pocket” became an anthem for both women and men who identified with its themes of confidence, empowerment, and self-determination. As a female-fronted band, The Pretenders became a part of the new wave of women in rock, with Hynde emerging as one of the most influential female musicians of her generation. The song’s success helped The Pretenders secure a lasting place in the rock pantheon, and it remains one of their most iconic tracks to this day.
The music video for “Brass in Pocket” also helped cement the song’s status as a cultural touchstone. The video, which featured footage of the band performing the song interspersed with scenes of Hynde in various settings, played a key role in promoting the band and furthering the popularity of the song. It was widely played on early music video channels like MTV, which was an emerging platform for bands at the time. The song’s visual presentation matched its confident and stylish tone, adding an extra layer of appeal to audiences who were tuning into the new wave aesthetic.
“Brass in Pocket” and The Pretenders’ Legacy
“Brass in Pocket” helped establish The Pretenders as one of the most important and enduring acts of the late 1970s and early 1980s. The band’s combination of punk energy, pop sensibility, and strong, independent female frontmanship made them stand out in the crowded musical landscape of the time. While the band would go on to release several more successful albums and singles, “Brass in Pocket” remains their signature hit, and it continues to be a fan favorite.
The song’s success marked the beginning of a period of commercial triumph for The Pretenders, but it also came during a tumultuous time for the band. The Pretenders experienced several lineup changes over the years, including the tragic deaths of founding members Honeyman-Scott and Farndon in the early 1980s. Despite these challenges, Hynde’s resilience and dedication to her music kept The Pretenders relevant in the evolving rock scene.
“Brass in Pocket” also cemented Hynde’s legacy as one of the most influential women in rock music. Her distinct voice and powerful presence on stage, combined with her ability to write memorable, empowering songs, made her a role model for countless musicians, especially women, who sought to break free from the conventions of the music industry.
Conclusion
“Brass in Pocket” is more than just a catchy song—it is a cultural milestone, a defining moment in rock music, and an anthem of confidence and empowerment. The Pretenders’ ability to fuse punk rock energy with pop accessibility made “Brass in Pocket” a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. The song’s success helped establish The Pretenders as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the late 1970s and early 1980s, and it remains a testament to the bold, distinctive voice of Chrissie Hynde.
