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Pretenders – Brass in Pocket – 1979

About The Song

“Brass in Pocket” is a hit single by the British-American rock band The Pretenders, released in 1979. Here are five facts about this iconic track:

  1. Breakthrough Hit: “Brass in Pocket” was The Pretenders’ breakthrough single, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart in January 1980. It also performed well internationally, marking a significant moment in the band’s early success.
  2. Debut Album Inclusion: The song was included in The Pretenders’ self-titled debut album, which was released in the same year. The album received critical acclaim and is considered one of the best debut albums in rock history.
  3. Unique Sound: “Brass in Pocket” is known for its distinctive sound, blending rock, punk, and new wave elements. Chrissie Hynde’s soulful vocals and the catchy guitar riff contribute to the song’s memorable and unique appeal.
  4. Lyrics and Theme: The lyrics of “Brass in Pocket” tell the story of a woman trying to gain confidence and assertiveness in a relationship. The phrase “Brass in Pocket” refers to having money or feeling self-assured, adding a playful and empowering element to the song.
  5. Chrissie Hynde’s Influence: The song’s success is often attributed to Chrissie Hynde’s charismatic and dynamic performance. As the lead singer and primary songwriter for The Pretenders, Hynde’s influence on the band’s sound and image was crucial to their early acclaim and popularity.

Video

Lyrics

I got brass in a pocket
I got bottle, I’m gonna use it
Intention, I feel inventive
Gonna make you, make you, make you notice

Got motion, restrained emotion
Been driving, Detroit leaning
No reason, just seems so pleasing
Gonna make you, make you, make you notice

Gonna use my arms, gonna use my legs
Gonna use my style, gonna use my sidestep
Gonna use my fingers, gonna use my, my, my
Imagination

‘Cause I gonna make you see
There’s nobody else here, no one like me
I’m special (special)
So special (special)
I gotta have some of your attention, give it to me

I got rhythm, I can’t miss a beat
I got a new skank, so reet
Got something, I’m winking at you
Gonna make you, make you, make you notice

Gonna use my arms, gonna use my legs
Gonna use my style, gonna use my sidestep
Gonna use my fingers, gonna use my, my, my
Imagination

‘Cause I gonna make you see
There’s nobody else here, no one like me
I’m special (special)
So special (special)
I gotta have some of your attention, give it to me

‘Cause I gonna make you see
There’s nobody else here, no one like me
I’m special (special)
So special (special)
I gotta have some of your attention, give it to me

Oh-oh-oh
Anyway you want