What's Happening?
Miles Salter, a regular contributor to York Calling, has authored a new book titled 'A Dangerous Band: The Pretenders 1978–1983,' which delves into the tragic early history of the band. The book focuses on the deaths of guitarist James Honeyman Scott
in 1982 at age 25 from drug use, and bassist Pete Farndon ten months later due to heroin addiction. Salter describes the band's story as a 'pretty dark tale' and a 'cornucopia of strange things and human imperfection.' The author was initially intrigued by the deaths of the young musicians and the band's distinctive first album. The book aims to be the most comprehensive account of these events, drawing on recorded interviews with individuals like Martin Chambers, Lyn Honeyman-Scott (James's sister), and Jonathan Farndon (Pete's brother). A key contributor was Conover Kennard, Pete Farndon's widow, who now resides in North Carolina and shared deeply personal insights into the events, including discovering Farndon's body. Salter chose not to interview Chrissie Hynde directly to maintain an objective tone, instead relying on archive interviews to portray her journey.
Why It's Important?
This book offers a significant contribution to the historical narrative of rock music, particularly for fans and scholars interested in the darker aspects of fame and the music industry. The detailed account of The Pretenders' early tragedies highlights the severe pressures and dangers associated with sudden success, especially concerning drug use and mental well-being among young artists. The inclusion of Conover Kennard's perspective, a U.S. resident who has since moved into American politics, adds a unique and deeply personal dimension, underscoring the long-lasting impact of these events on individuals connected to the band. The book's objective approach, avoiding direct input from Chrissie Hynde to ensure an unbiased narrative, could set a precedent for how sensitive historical accounts in music are approached, prioritizing factual integrity over potentially controlled narratives from central figures. This work serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of show business and the importance of being grounded to navigate the complexities of fame.
What's Next?
Miles Salter's book, 'A Dangerous Band: The Pretenders 1978–1983,' is scheduled for publication by Winter and May on November 1, 2026. It will be available in hardback and can be pre-ordered from Amazon. The release will likely generate renewed interest in The Pretenders' early work and the circumstances surrounding the deaths of James Honeyman Scott and Pete Farndon. The book's detailed and objective account may prompt further discussions and analyses within music journalism and fan communities regarding the band's legacy and the broader issues of substance abuse and mental health in the music industry. The author's decision to self-publish through his handle, Winter and May, reflects a growing trend among authors to bypass traditional publishing routes, which could influence other writers with niche or sensitive topics. The book's reception will indicate the public's appetite for in-depth, unvarnished accounts of rock history.
Beyond the Headlines
The narrative presented in Salter's book extends beyond a mere recounting of events, touching upon profound ethical and psychological dimensions of fame. Chrissie Hynde's reported sentiment that she wouldn't pursue rock 'n' roll again, coupled with her perceived guilt over the band members' fates, highlights the heavy personal cost that can accompany professional success. This raises questions about the responsibility of band leaders and the industry at large in safeguarding the well-being of artists. The book's portrayal of fame as a 'Faustian tale' suggests a deeper cultural commentary on the allure and destructive potential of celebrity. Furthermore, the involvement of Conover Kennard, Pete Farndon's widow, who later became involved in American politics, illustrates how individuals impacted by such tragedies can find new paths and contribute to society in different capacities, offering a perspective of survival and resilience amidst profound loss. The book implicitly critiques the publishing industry's focus on celebrity memoirs, advocating for the value of thoroughly researched, objective historical accounts.
