The Pretenders are a British-American rock band formed in 1978, led by singer-songwriter Chrissie Hynde. One of their most popular songs is “Back On The Chain Gang,” released in 1982. The song reached number five on the UK Singles Chart and number 5 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
The Lyrics
“Back On The Chain Gang” is a song about loss and longing. The lyrics describe the feeling of being trapped in a cyclical life, wishing to break free but not knowing how. The chorus repeats the phrase “I found a picture of you” as a reminder of what was lost.
The full lyrics of “Back On The Chain Gang” are as follows:
What hijacked my world that night
To a place in the past
We’ve been cast out of? Oh oh oh oh
Now we’re back in the fight
We’re back on the train
Oh, back on the chain gang
A circumstance beyond our control, oh oh oh oh
The phone, the TV and the news of the world
Got in the house like a pigeon from hell, oh oh oh oh
Threw sand in our eyes and descended like flies
Put us back on the train
Oh, back on the chain gang
The powers that be
That force us to live like we do
Bring me to my knees
When I see what they’ve done to you
But I’ll die as I stand here today
Knowing that deep in my heart
They’ll fall to ruin one day
For making us part
I found a picture of you, oh oh oh oh
What hijacked my world that night
To a place in the past
We’ve been cast out of? Oh oh oh oh
Now we’re back in the fight
We’re back on the train
Oh, back on the chain gang.”
The Meaning
The lyrics of “Back On The Chain Gang” are open to interpretation, but many believe the song is a reflection of Hynde’s personal life. The song was written after the death of two of Hynde’s bandmates, James Honeyman-Scott and Pete Farndon, and her relationship with Ray Davies of The Kinks.
Hynde has said that the line “I found a picture of you” was inspired by a photo she found of Honeyman-Scott and Farndon together, which made her feel nostalgic for the early days of The Pretenders. The line “Threw sand in our eyes and descended like flies” is thought to refer to the media’s treatment of the band after their initial success.
The Music Video
The music video for “Back On The Chain Gang” features footage of the band performing the song in a studio, interspersed with shots of Hynde walking around London. The video was directed by Roger Pomphrey and has a minimalist, black and white aesthetic that complements the song’s melancholic tone.
Cover Versions
“Back On The Chain Gang” has been covered by several artists over the years, including Morrissey, The Bangles, and Tracey Thorn. The song remains a popular choice for tribute bands and karaoke enthusiasts.
Conclusion
“Back On The Chain Gang” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today. Its catchy melody and poignant lyrics make it a standout track in The Pretenders’ discography and a beloved song in the rock canon.
