“Tattooed Love Boys” is a song by The Pretenders that explores the sexual assault committed by a biker gang against Pretenders leader Chrissie Hynde. The song, which was released as the fourth track on The Pretenders, features a gritty, edgy sound and provocative lyrics that suggest a rebellious nature and a desire for uniqueness. The title suggests individuals who are marked by their tattoos, which could be interpreted as a metaphor for individuals who are marked by their tattoos.
The song’s lyrics hint at a harrowing case of assault involving “tattooed” men of some description. The song’s simple chord progression, unorthodox time signature, and undeniable sense of confrontation run throughout the song. The song is both a rock and roll and punk rock classic, with few songs straddling the line as perfectly as “Tattooed Love Boys”.
The song was formed by drummer Mick Ransome, formerly of NWOBHM almost-legends Praying Mantis. During their brief salad days, CJ Tattooed Love Boys had an extra song in a hoogst on-rock-‘n-rolle zeven zestiende timing that bovendien rockt als Tattooed Love Boys.
The song’s lyrics suggest that the “Tattooed Love Boys” were a group of individuals who caught the narrator’s attention, likely rebellious and unconventional, with tattoos symbolizing their uniqueness. The song’s lyrics suggest that the group’s music is a reflection of the punk rock spirit that defined the late 1970s.
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| Meaning of Tattooed Love Boys by Pretenders | The “Tattooed love boys” refer to the individuals who caught the narrator’s attention. These individuals are likely rebellious and … | songtell.com |
| The Pretenders – Tattooed Love Boys Lyrics & Meanings | Anyway, the song seems to be about Chrissie’s rape experience. Chrissie implies in her book that she sort of induced the rape based on her behavior and clothing … | songmeanings.com |
| The song that described the tragic assault of Chrissie Hynde | The song documented a real sexual assault that Hynde experienced in her early 20s after she and a friend were asked to go to a “party” with members of the …People also ask | faroutmagazine.co.uk |
📹 Pretenders – Tattooed Love Boys (Official Music Video)
Official music video of Tattooed Love Boys by Pretenders, from their self-titled debut album, often heralded as one of the greatest …
Who Is The Most Tattooed Male?
Lucky Diamond Rich, born Gregory Paul McLaren in 1971 in New Zealand, is recognized as the world's most tattooed person, having spent over 1, 000 hours undergoing extensive body modification. He holds the prestigious Guinness World Record for the most tattooed living male, boasting that 100% of his body is covered with ink. Rich is not just known for his tattoos but also for his captivating performances, which include chainsaw juggling, unicycling, and sword swallowing, showcasing his skills as a talented performance artist.
His tattoos are not merely aesthetic; they represent a profound aspect of tattoo culture, which has existed for over two millennia. Rich's body serves as an organic canvas, displaying an intricate tapestry of designs, earned through dedication to the craft of tattooing. His unique choice to cover his entire body with ink speaks to his creativity and the tribal influences of his Aboriginal Australian heritage, belonging to the Quandamooka and Mununjali Tribal Clans.
Previously holding this remarkable title was Englishman Tom Leppard, but Rich’s commitment to tattoo art has afforded him this iconic status since 2024. Alongside him in the tattooed community are notable figures like Julia Gnuse and Zombie Boy (Rick Genest), who have fascinating stories behind their body art. Rich's journey into the tattoo world has made him not just a world record holder but also a celebrated icon of tattoo culture, inspiring many to explore the artistic possibilities of body modification. Overall, Lucky Diamond Rich stands out not only for his record-breaking tattoo achievements but also as a performer blending art and skill into an extraordinary spectacle.
What Time Signature Is Tattooed Love Boy?
"Tattooed Love Boys," a song by the English-American rock band The Pretenders, showcases an unconventional time signature, primarily in 7/16, which deviates from typical rhythmic structures found in most genres. Released in 1979 on their self-titled debut album, the track begins with shifting rhythms between 7/4 and 4/4. The song embodies a high-energy punk vibe, featuring lyrics that reflect emotional turmoil, like "around a heart that's black and blue." Chrissie Hynde, known for her affinity for odd time signatures, crafted a piece that challenges traditional music forms, leaving the band's musicians grappling with its intricacies.
The overall tempo of "Tattooed Love Boys" is 111 BPM, allowing for variations where it can be played half-time or double-time, creating a diverse listening experience. While most of the song adheres to a common 4/4 structure, there are notable changes in meter throughout, particularly at the ends of verses and during the bridge, mixing elements like polyrhythms and alternating meters. The song's arrangement includes a blend of varying timings, making it a significant achievement within punk music and showcasing the band's innovative approach.
Musicians and fans alike appreciate the complexity and catchy nature of "Tattooed Love Boys," which stands out in the band’s catalog. It remains a beloved and defining track for The Pretenders, exemplifying their distinctive sound and Hynde's songwriting prowess that play with rhythm and energy. The song continues to engage listeners with its exciting dynamics and irregular time signatures.
Does Nicki Minaj Have A Barbie Tattoo?
Nicki Minaj recently showcased her love for the iconic Barbie dolls by getting a tattoo of the word "Barbie" on the inside of her right wrist. This marks her second tattoo, as she also has "Barbie" inked on her left wrist. Throughout her career, Minaj has associated herself with Barbies, symbolizing female empowerment and showcasing that perfection can come in various forms. The significance of this ink goes beyond aesthetics, as Nicki has embraced the Barbie image as a representation of girl power.
In June 2018, while recording her album "Queen," Nicki got her "Barbie" tattoo, and the process was recorded for an episode of VH1's "Black Ink Crew: Chicago." The tattoo session reflects her deep connection to the concept of loyalty and the notion that beauty and perfection are multifaceted. Unbeknownst to her at the time, Nicki would later feature in the "Barbie World" track accompanying the Barbie movie, adding another layer to her Barbie legacy.
Nicki's tattoos include her a Chinese symbol located on her left upper arm, alongside her striking red "Barbie" tattoo on her wrist. The choice of the Barbie logo resonates with her fans, whom she affectionately calls the "Barbz." This artistic expression not only emphasizes her commitment to celebrating womanhood but also highlights her influence in the music industry.
Fans and tattoo enthusiasts alike have been inspired by Nicki’s iconic wrist tattoo. As she continues to embody the spirit of Barbie, her ink symbolizes a message of empowerment, encouraging women and girls to recognize their multifaceted beauty and strength. The tattoo is indeed a testament to her artistry and love for the symbol of Barbie.
Who Did Rihanna'S Tattoo?
Tattoo artist Keith "Bang Bang" McCurdy reminisces about his initial meeting with the globally renowned artist Rihanna at a modest tattoo parlor on Sixth Avenue and West Fourth Street nearly a decade ago, coinciding with the release of her hit "Umbrella." Over the years, Rihanna has primarily entrusted her body art to Bang Bang, who has completed most of her over 25 tattoos. Her tattoo journey began with a simple Pisces symbol beneath her right ear in 2006 when she was just 18. Notably, Rihanna got a "Thug Life" tattoo across her knuckles in January 2012 by Mark Mahoney, honoring the rapper Tupac Shakur.
Rihanna is well-known for her extensive collection of tattoos, which hold personal meanings and reflect significant life milestones. For instance, she has a Maori tribal print tattoo that she later covered with a henna-inspired design by Bang Bang. A creative collaboration with her favorite tattooist, her body art varies widely in style and significance—from small symbols to large, intricate pieces, like the Egyptian goddess Isis tattooed on her chest in memory of her grandmother.
Rihanna also holds influence in the tattoo world; celebrities like Lena Dunham cite her as inspiration for their own tattoos. The singer's collection includes meaningful designs such as a camouflage shark on her ankle, completed in September 2016, and crossbones tattoos juxtaposed with longer trails of stars on her neck.
Beyond their artistic appeal, each tattoo represents aspects of Rihanna’s personal philosophy and spirituality. She remains passionate about body art, with tattoo ideas often depicted in collaboration with Bang Bang, who has been her go-to artist since their first encounter.
Rihanna's tattoo repertoire showcases a range of artistic styles, with a focus on personal significance and emotional connection. For example, she tattooed her best friend's birthday on her shoulder in a mutual display of friendship. Essentially, Bang Bang and Rihanna’s relationship highlights a shared journey through body art, with Bang Bang interpreting and bringing to life Rihanna’s envisioned designs.
Overall, Rihanna’s tattoos stand as a testament to her individuality and evolution over the years, serving as markers throughout her life and career, lovingly inked by the skilled hands of Keith "Bang Bang" McCurdy.
Why Are Tattooed Men More Attractive?
Tattooed men have been perceived as more dominant, aggressive, and masculine by both men and women. According to researchers Galbarczyk and Ziomkiewicz, these traits are often linked to higher testosterone levels and associated with good health, which might explain why female viewers perceive tattooed men as healthier. A recent study demonstrated that tattooed men are viewed as significantly more masculine, dominant, and aggressive than their non-tattooed counterparts. This raises the question of why tattoos evoke such intrigue and interest, particularly when seen on older men.
Men also perceive tattooed men as more attractive, but do not necessarily consider them healthier than their non-tattooed peers. Conversely, women assessed tattooed men as less suitable parents and partners. Despite this, many women find men with body art attractive, and this trend appears consistent across various demographics, although individual reasons may vary.
Tattoo designs play a crucial role in shaping perceptions, as they intertwine personal expression with cultural acceptance, enhancing attractiveness. Research published in 2016 in the journal Personality and Individual Differences indicates that tattoos can boost perceptions of masculinity and health in men. The study hypothesized that women would rate tattooed men as healthier, more attractive, and indeed more aggressive, yet less suitable as long-term partners or fathers.
The notion is that tattoos could signal good health to potential mates and possibly intimidate rivals, further enhancing a tattooed man’s desirability. While men's tattoos may not universally elevate their attractiveness to women, they certainly contribute to an aura of confidence, uniqueness, and risk-taking, which are often deemed attractive traits. Ultimately, both men and women agree that tattoos enhance perceptions of masculinity, dominance, and aggression in men, showcasing the complex interplay of personal expression and societal views on body art.
Does 'Tattooed Love Boys' Really Work?
"Tattooed Love Boys" by The Pretenders is a notable track from their 1980 debut album, following "Up The Neck." Despite its unconventional structure—lacking a chorus, possessing a false ending, and concluding abruptly—the song resonated with critics for its rawness. The lyrics delve into a serious theme, addressing Chrissie Hynde's sexual assault by a biker gang, which adds depth to its seemingly reckless narrative.
The placement of the song on the b-side of "Kid" and the production of a music video contributed to its unexpected success, illustrating the band’s unique approach during a period of musical upheaval.
By the late 1980s, other bands began to emulate the messages embedded in such songs, including NY Loose and Gunfire Dance. Although "Tattooed Love Boys" has an energetic, hard-rocking quality, it retains a connection to the punk roots that Hynde experienced in the 70s, blended with the 80s post-punk and new wave influences. The song’s shifting time signatures pose a challenge for musicians, particularly drummers, aiming to capture its dynamic feel.
Despite its initial reception, the enduring legacy of "Tattooed Love Boys" continues to intrigue fans and critics alike, exemplifying The Pretenders’ ability to blend personal tragedy with powerful rock music. This page is dedicated to celebrating everything related to "Tattooed Love Boys."
What Time Signature Is I Kissed A Girl?
"I Kissed A Girl" is an upbeat pop song by Katy Perry, characterized by a lively tempo of 130 BPM, which can also be utilized in half-time at 65 BPM or double-time at 260 BPM. The song has a duration of 3 minutes, is written in the key of F major, and follows a common time signature of 4/4, making it highly danceable and energetic.
Katy Perry co-wrote "I Kissed A Girl" alongside Dr. Luke, Max Martin, and Cathy Dennis. It was released as the lead single from her second studio album, "One of the Boys," on April 28, 2008. The song quickly gained popularity, becoming Perry's debut single and establishing her presence in the pop music scene. Notably, it is placed in the A minor key, which is the most popular among minor keys and ranks as the 7th most popular key overall.
The song's high energy and catchy melody make it suitable for performances, such as during a live rendition at MTV Unplugged in 2009, where the song retained its emotional appeal. The arrangement features a classic chord progression that contributes to its pop sensibility. The playful yet provocative lyrics discuss themes of experimentation and attraction, resonating with many listeners.
For musicians looking to practice, the song's tempo ensures it can be performed briskly, aligning with genres typically associated with house or disco music. The backbeat and prominent rhythm maintain a lively atmosphere, ideal for both casual listening and dancing. The ability to alter BPM for practice further facilitates learning.
In summary, "I Kissed A Girl" is not only a significant piece in Katy Perry's discography but also a versatile composition that offers a blend of emotional depth and danceable energy. It emphasizes the importance of tempo, time signature, and key, showcasing the song's structure and appeal in the pop genre. For those exploring its musical elements, resources like online metronomes and sheet music arrangements are readily available, allowing for deeper engagement with the track's features.
What Is A Love Tattoo In Arabic Quotes?
Tattoos themed around love are incredibly popular, often symbolizing self-love or honoring cherished individuals or family members. In the realm of Arabic quotes, expressions of love can be beautifully encapsulated in elegant Arabic script. If you're seeking inspiration for an Arabic tattoo, various stunning designs are worth considering. Love in Arabic can be conveyed in multiple ways, including quotes that resonate deeply with personal experiences.
Courage is also significant in Arabic tattoos, sometimes integrating concepts of love and bravery. Notable Arabic love quotes to consider include قلبي ينبض بك ("My heart beats for you") and حبي لك لا يعد ولا يحصى ("My love for you is countless"). Arabic tattoos frequently embody themes of love, faith, and cultural heritage, often represented through names, sayings, religious verses, or symbols like the Hamsa. These tattoos may encapsulate different forms of love ranging from romantic to familial, showcasing the depth of sentiment that can be etched into the skin.
Living in an Arab country reveals that romance and poetry are integral to Arabic culture—qualities that enhance the attractiveness of Arabic tattoos among those who appreciate heartfelt expressions of love. These tattoos not only signify personal affection but can also celebrate broader themes of love and connection.
Exploring various Arabic phrases and proverbs reveals a rich tapestry of meanings, perfect for those wanting to capture their journey or significant emotions. Visual platforms like Pinterest and TikTok showcase a vast collection of creative Arabic tattoo ideas that highlight their significance, blending tradition with individual expression.
The word for love in Arabic, حب (Habun) or الحب (Alhubu), introduces a wealth of meanings, with 14 distinct terms for different types of love. When choosing Arabic calligraphy for tattoos, it's essential to ensure the phrases are respectful and culturally appropriate. Searching for unique designs can lead to meaningful pieces that resonate personally, showcasing love's universal essence in the captivating script of the Arabic language.
Who Wrote Tattooed Love Boys?
"Tattooed Love Boys" is a poignant song depicting the traumatic assault of Chrissie Hynde, the lead singer and songwriter of The Pretenders. Born in Akron, Ohio, Hynde relocated to London in 1973 after studying at Kent State University’s Art School. In 1978, she formed The Pretenders in Hereford.
Hynde single-handedly crafted the song, using a spontaneous approach to collaborate with her band, which resulted in unstructured yet unique musical elements, including the notable false ending. Featured as the fourth track on The Pretenders' self-titled debut album, released in 1979, the lyrics allude to a disturbing incident involving "tattooed" men, reflective of Hynde's personal experience.
The song's lyrics convey a raw and rebellious energy, resonating with punk rock influences. The line "I tore my knees up getting to you" suggests a desperate search for love amidst pain. In fact, Hynde recounts a harrowing incident from her youth where she was abducted by a biker gang, which lends an autobiographical essence to the song.
Contemporary reviews of the album presented mixed responses. Chris Brazier from Melody Maker hailed it as "the first important album" of the 1980s, recognizing the second side's superiority while calling the entire record "irresistible." Conversely, Tony Stewart from NME critiqued the hype surrounding the band, arguing that their music resembled '60s pop influences, undermining claims of innovation.
Musically, the song features a striking 7/4 time signature reminiscent of the Bo Diddley beat, supporting the sense of unease conveyed in the lyrics. The energy and boldness of "Tattooed Love Boys" capture the essence of Hynde's punk roots, establishing the song as a significant piece within the rock genre and underscoring her talent as a masterful songwriter. Ultimately, "Tattooed Love Boys" stands as a testament to Hynde's resilience and artistic expression against the backdrop of her personal tragedies.
Who Did Cardi B Tattoo?
Cardi B, the Grammy-winning rapper, is known for her vibrant personality and numerous tattoos, each carrying personal significance. One of her most iconic designs is a large peacock tattoo that extends from her right hip down to her knee. Initially inked in 2010, Cardi chose to refresh the design in June 2020 with tattoo artist Jamie Schene.
Among her many tattoos, Cardi has "Hennessey" inked in black on the inside of her left bicep, accompanied by three roses, a tribute to her younger sister, Hennessy Carolina. Another significant tattoo is "Samuel," written in red on her upper back, which is speculated to honor a former lover, although details about that relationship remain unclear. Additionally, Cardi has a tattoo reading "Cardi B" on her right bicep, likely referring to her real name, Belcalis.
Her tattoos are not only artistic expressions, but also reflections of her relationships. For instance, she bears the name "Tommy G" in red ink on her left wrist, representing her on-and-off boyfriend and fiancé who's currently incarcerated. Cardi recently showcased new ink dedicated to her husband, Offset, tattooing his name in script on her back. Over the years, she has expressed joy in getting various tattoos, even sharing her experience of enduring hours of pain for a makeover of her peacock tattoo with Jamie Schene.
Cardi is also known for her love for bold statements through body art, including a hand sign and a star tattoo behind her right ear symbolizing "I love you." Her deep connection to her family is evident with tattoos dedicated to her children, Kulture and Wave, which she revealed during an Instagram Live session.
Besides her music and captivating performances, Cardi B's tattoos provide a glimpse into her life experiences, relationships, and personal beliefs. Her commitment to authenticity shines through as she shares her new designs, often dividing fans but remaining unapologetically true to her artistic expressions. Whether it's through tributes to loved ones or reflections of her past, each tattoo tells a unique story of the multi-faceted artist that Cardi B embodies.
📹 🎵 Pretenders – Tattooed Love Boys REACTION
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For a long time I couldn’t figure out what this song was really about — many of the lines strongly indicated that this was about a rape, but I just always assumed that Chrissie was probably a pretty hardcore feminist, I always kind of make that assumption when I see a woman from her era kicking butt so thoroughly in an area that was still quite male dominated at the time. Due to that assumption I was really puzzled by the lines that indicated that she accepted much of the responsibility for the incident, something that i never imagined a strong feminist saying. I’m still really puzzled by her acceptance of the incident, i can’t imagine anyone coming through an experience like that with that same assessment, but I’m really impressed by her courage to speak her mind and her toughness. To be able to get through that and come out the other side with that attitude, and then be able to go out and accomplish what she has, man, she is STRONG.
The sheer razor sharp power and unfettered audacity of this lil’ doozy is OFF the charts my friends! I bought this album as a teenager when it debuted, on 8 Track no less, and then again on cassette when the 8 track inevitably gave up the ghost. It informed my lifestyle and gave focus to my still developing young mind. Thank you Chrissie Hynde! 🎸🎸🎸
Still one of my all-time faves. In the 1980s, I had a collection of mix-tapes all called, “Playloud. This is not a test” and Tattooed Love Boys often opened them (along with I Don’t Know What You’re Talking About” or “TV Eye”). I was devastated, tho, when I found out Chrissy’s true story behind “Tattooed Love Boys”. This woman KICKED ASS!
For the music nerds, its a measure of 7/8, then a measure of 8/8, then the change is regular 4/4…….or u cud say, a measure of 4/4, a measure of 3/4, then 2 measures of 4/4……either way, its SUPER smart, and SUPER cool!!!……have had this album sice it came out…..one of my favs of all time!!!!….Precious is another heavy duty song!!!…..PEACE to all who think Chrissy and the boys were the sh%t!!!!…
about 4 beers into a 2 hour stint of getting the kitchen in order is when I usually would start repeating this song over and over back in the day. I miss those days………..I’m someone if I ever did Coke I would have liked it too much. As a guitarist and songwriter myself……..I love James Honeymann-Scott guitar on this, they never did songs likes this without him and James Farndon. Makes me think they were the edge to this sound along with the explosive drumming.
My Lord, I have not heard this song since 1983 on a cassette deck in my 1980 Trans Am I forgot all about it when I left the East Coast to move to California. I have never seen this article before this band was light years behind on this time. I did not know what the song was about until two days ago now I can’t stop perusal the article. Chrissie Hynde is remarkable look at the articles of her with Dave Grohl.
I had no Idea this brilliant song was about a SA on Chrissy. If I’m not mistaken it was at a guy club pre AIDS.. the lumps and bumps. I thought it was about a bathroom line at a punk show where people were injecting drugs.. Target practice . There was a lot of IV use back then amongst the punk crowd I was wrong
Tattooed Love Boys (Lyrics) The Pretenders (Band) I ran twenty doors, Around the house, black and blue Between love boys Tore my knees up getting tattooed Cause I needed, to find out what the thing was for Been reading, a man time came to explore. I went apewire Cause I thought, like I like it Little tease, but I didn’t mean it But you mess with the goods doll, you gotta pay. A good time was guaranteed for one and all With tattoos, target practice in the hall While waiting for their number to get called While I, I, I found what the wait was about. I was a good time Yeah, I got pretty good Changing tires, upstairs bro. I shot my mouth off and he showed me what that hole was for. Now I see you, all impressed and half-undressed, You got paint stick, all over the scars, lumps and bumps Tattooed love boys got you where I used to lay But ha ha, too bad You know what they say. Stop sniffling You’re gonna make some plastic surgeon a rich man Oh, but the prestige and the glory Another human interest story You are that. Composer: Hynde Chrissie
The Time signature alone leaves most players in the dust. Couple that with a person that still looks as amazing in their 60+?’s (last I saw on YT) as they did when they graced American TV…I love this human and have blatantly ripped off the non-blues riffs from Mr. James Honeyman-Scott…in the 2000’s. RIP Mr. Honeyman-Scott.
Think they are just a little amped up? One of the best punk/new wave bands of the era by far. Martin is still one of the most interesting timekeepers playing today. Think how much further this band would’ve gone if not for losing those 2 guys. If the first album was only a sneak peak they would’ve hit the moon by their 3rd record.
I can remember when this came out and this song was always my favorite because the time changes the article is cool too. It looks like James is about ready to beef it when he comes out of the paper at the solo section……it looks kind of funny. I don’t know if anybody knew this, but Pete was kicked out of the band towards the very end. It was cool, because Chrissie Hynde said not too long ago, that she could’ve made it without James and Pete Martin, which was very very cool of her to say that.
Yes Martin Chambers is a Great Drummer 🥁 The Time Turn Around Without Breaking The Tempo is The Secret 2&4 Become 1&3 Then Back Too 2&4 Changes Too 1&3 and So Forth 1,2,3,4,1,1,2,3,4,1,1,2,3,4,1,1, It’s a Very Kool Time Signature Yet it’s Rock it’s Very Progressive Chrissy Said “” I Really Didn’t Know What I Was Doing The Guys Put It All Together And I Really Didn’t Change a Thing They Actually Followed Me But Tighten It Up…..
Why is this missing the introduction???????. Technically not entirely the “Official article”. When this article first aired in 1980, it began with an elderly British geezer and his Basset Hound sitting in a chair describing the members of the band. Crissie Hynde is filmed in a laundromat where she talks about wanting to go to Japan, and she tosses her knickers into the machine, Honeyman Scott comes out from behind a bar, and is wearing a ballet dress, where he then talks about his guitars, (Flying V, and his Stratocaster), Pete Farndon pulls up on his BSA Motorcycle, and Martin Chambers is filmed on a bridge on a typical misty British day, where he lets go of a Pigeon. Ladies and Gentlemen……..The Pretenders, and the article begins. Then at the end, Honeyman Scott and Chambers are filmed dancing to bag pipes. Somewhere deep in the boxes of hundred among hundreds of VHS tapes, I have this version.
Underrated compared to who or what? Underrated seems to be a term people use when they can’t think of anything else to say. Why don’t you compliment him on what he’s doing? This is a band that has sold millions of albums and has millions of fans worldwide, how could he ever be underrated? People say the most ridiculous things in YouTube comments and it appears it’s just to say something. I’m sorry you feel he’s underrated, but the rest of the world would disagree.
I asked some youngsters I work with if they had ever heard this song. 20 year old hipsters from Olympia they had never even heard of The Pretenders. Well, screw them! They missed it all anyway. I bought a ticket from Bill Graham on new years eve right in front of the Warfield. Eddie Money was with him and they were both shitfaced. I had a little cellophane and a bic pen cap in my pocket. Crissey twas sexy as hell. Glad i was there then .
A little bit of Pete Townshend there. I love it. Chrissy was so damn hot. I wanted to be her. Awesome musician, getting out of the U.S. and living in England, and being a rock star. She really shreds on this song. Now she’s all on about Meat is Murder (like Moz), but I’m gonna allow it. She’s won the right to preach.
The lyrics are brutal, disturbing, but the mood is playful, which is the song’s brilliance. Apparently based on a real experience, I won’t go into the details but you can look it up. Chrissie Hynde’s style is always to be vulnerable and bad-ass at the same time, and that’s definitely in play here. Love it.
i watched an interview once or read an interview about this song she went for a ride with a bike club when she was young and became the entertainment young and stupid got herself in trouble. it is about a very bad experience i could be wrong but thats what i gathered from what i read or heard. i was lucky to see them in 1980 june july around toronto and there was a big punk event talking heads, b52s, elvis costello, and many others and pretenders stole the show. i was so sad when 2 members passed by 1984 maybe sooner i dont think the band had the same chemistry after.
“Tattooed Love Boys” runs around 120 bpm, uptempo for sure, but not faster than most. It’s the 7/16 time signature that might be throwing you off. There are few songs in 7/4 time, much less 7/16 time. When your ready for more from The Pretenders stellar debut album, check out “The Wait”, “Up The Neck”, “Precious”, “Stop Your Sobbing”, “Kid”, “Mystery Achievement”, and one you’re sure to appreciate more very soon, “Lovers of Today”, with its lyric “‘Cause all of the birds start to sing, Every time babies dream, All of the birds start to sing…”
I know a lot of people love this song, but for me it’s second tier Pretenders – still better than most bands though. The crowning jewel of that first album is Private Life, an absolutely skewering put-down to Some Guy from earlier in her life, featuring some stunning guitar playing from James Honeyman Scott.
Great new wave/post-punk band! Alternative rock. Such as Blondie, The Go-Gos, etc. Chrissy Hynde is pretty and unique voice, plays the guitar well. The Pretenders have had a long career. Late’70s, ’80s and ’90s. They/Chrissy Hynde have influenced many alt rock bands in the future such as Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Metric, Elastica, PJ Harvey, The Breeders, Throwing Muses, Belly, L7, Liz Phair, etc Watch the music article for this song later on. Also check out more Pretenders.
I think it was time signature changes in the song that made it seem “rushed” or fast. It had 7/8 then 8/8 repeated, like a 15 beat. The 7/8 makes it seem like a 3 between 4s. The keyboard kept playing the 4s and 3. Other times they played constent 8/8. But I could be wrong, I’m not a musician or expert.
Thanks for reacting to the rockin Pretenders. most reactors do the ballads. “With tattoos, target practice in the hall While waiting for their number to get called” “changing tires upstairs bro”, it is about a promiscuous woman; Not necessarily voluntarily. I’d invite to you take a deeper dive into more of this song and the numerous bangers of the Pretenders.
Best listened to as an album. New Wave pop-punk- rock that became popular. A lot of existing pub-rock and session musician bands tried on punk as it swept away everything in it’s path for a couple of years. Chrissie was the punk influence, similarly with Patti Smith’s proto-punk; their bands were rock musicians while Chrissie and Patti directed. Another obvious fast rock song was ‘Ace of Spades’ by Motörhead, another rock band with biker culture that had some influence on the transition from heavy rock to heavy metal and punk. You might like ‘Porcelain’ by The Pretenders from a 1981 E.P. (45 rpm), when both sides of a 45rpm single were meaningful, as 45rpm E.P.s and singles were a way a lot of New Wave and punk bands first released their material, and often in only that format.
Absolutely fantastic track! Chrissie ‘hung out with the wrong crowd’ at a certain point in her life, and the song (as explained by Chrissie herself) is about pushing her luck and the consequences that followed. It’s all in her autobiography. Never afraid to broach difficult subjects is what sets her apart from the crowd! More Pretenders please– ‘Private Lives’ or maybe ‘Precious’ next ??
This was just so fascinating when it came out. And yeah I don’t know if you would call it punk or post-punk or New Wave or maybe a mix of those things. But it was such a new sound. Brass in Pocket was a huge hit but this one was such a fun dance song. And its BPM (beats per minute) isn’t any faster than what kids dance to today. Lex totally cracking me up btw 😀
I’ve always thought it sounded like she was talking about getting mixed up with guys and taken advantage of at one point, within that punk scene in London where she was when this stuff was written, but growing out of it, and then expressing contempt toward a woman who’s now where she once was. That last bit is very “quit your crying.”
Fast? Not really. Just different time signatures. This is a great album. This song is about an extremely violent experience. The Bad Brains “Black Dots” is fast. J. R. is amazing. (I saw both these bands in 80~ 81.) Insanely fast~ DRI! Husker Du ( best band of mid eighties) has some fast stuff. They were a major influence on Nirvana. Listen to “Zen Arcade” or “New Day Rising” and you will see why. They had great hooks.
This song is seriously bad ass for many reasons, its ok if it doesn’t appeal the host on his first listen, our hostess knows a good rhythm when she hears it and its a pleasure to watch her enjoy music. This song is switches between 7/4 and 4/4 time signatures which gives it that feeling like its stalling and jumping at the same time and it’s a testimony to the talent of the band to pull it off and make it so catchy with that hook guitar riff and Chrissy amazing voice belting out such gnarly lyrics that apparently describe an event from her youth when she was tragically assaulted by a biker gang, no joke she is an amazing woman, incredibly talented song writer, rhythm guitarist, singer and band leader, this song is fast and bad ass let it grow on you brother you’ll come to love it.