Christine Ellen Hynde (born September 7, 1951) is an American-British musician, best known as the founding member, lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter of the Pretenders. Alongside drummer Martin Chambers, she remains one of the two original members still in the band.
Hynde has appeared on every Pretenders studio album. The band was formed in Hereford, England, in 1978 with Pete Farndon, James Honeyman-Scott, and Chambers. She has collaborated with Frank Sinatra, Cher, and UB40, and released her solo album Stockholm in 2014. In 2005, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
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Chrissie Hynde Net Worth
Chrissie Hynde has a net worth of $12 million. The Pretenders’ debut album was a global success, followed by “Extended Play” and “Pretenders II”. Tragedy struck in 1982 when James Honeyman-Scott died of a drug overdose, just days after Pete Farndon was fired. Farndon also died of an overdose the next year.
These events marked the first of many lineup changes. Robert McIntosh joined on guitar and Malcolm Foster on bass, but they too left shortly after, as the band’s roster continued to evolve.
Early life
Chrissie Hynde was born in Akron, Ohio, to a part-time secretary and a Yellow Pages manager, and grew up in Cuyahoga Falls. She graduated from Firestone High School but admitted having little interest in high school life—never attending dances, dates, or going steady.
Her passion was music, frequently traveling to Cleveland to see bands. She was often “in love” with musicians she had never met, like Brian Jones and Iggy Pop, which made local relationships seem unimportant. Hynde always had bigger dreams and musical ambitions.
Career
Hynde became interested in hippie counterculture, Eastern mysticism, and vegetarianism. While studying at Kent State University’s Art School, she joined Sat. Sun. Mat., a band with Mark Mothersbaugh, later of Devo. She witnessed the Kent State massacre in 1970, where her friend’s boyfriend was among the four killed.
In May 1973, she moved to London, briefly worked at an architectural firm, then wrote for New Musical Express (NME). She also worked at Sex, the boutique run by Malcolm McLaren and Vivienne Westwood, before joining Jack Rabbit in Cleveland.
Personal life
Chrissie Hynde, born in the United States, holds dual citizenship with the UK. In the 1970s, she sought a work visa, asking Sid Vicious and Johnny Rotten to marry her. She later returned to the UK. In 1983, she had a daughter, Natalie, with Ray Davies.
She married Jim Kerr in 1984, had daughter Yasmin in 1985, and divorced in 1990. Later, she wed Lucho Brieva (1997–2002). A Vaishnavism follower, she visits India yearly. She is a vegetarian, animal rights activist, and supports PETA, Viva!, and Julian Assange.
Why did Jim Kerr and Chrissie Hynde split?
Jim Kerr and Chrissie Hynde split because their relationship couldn’t withstand the strain of distance and conflicting commitments.
At the time, American-born Hynde was still involved with Ray Davies of The Kinks, who is the father of her eldest daughter, Natalie. But Glasgow-born Kerr was deeply smitten. Just days after their wedding, the then 25-year-old Kerr embarked on a two-year world tour, leaving his new wife behind. Over time, their marriage gradually disintegrated.
Conclusion
Chrissie Hynde’s journey to a net worth of $12 million is marked by her impactful presence in the rock music scene. Her role as the leader of The Pretenders and her musical contributions have secured her a notable place in rock history.
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FAQs about Chrissie Hynde Net Worth
- How much is Chrissie Hynde worth?
- Approximately $12 million.
- What makes her a renowned musician?
- Her role as the leader of The Pretenders and her contributions to punk rock.
- How does she earn her income?
- Through music sales, performances, and royalties.
- Where does Chrissie Hynde live?
- Details about her current residence are not provided.
- Is Chrissie Hynde married?
- She is separated from Lucho Brieva and has two children.
