Christine Ellen "Chrissie" Hynde (born September 7, 1951) is an American musician who is best known as a founding member of the rock band The Pretenders.
Inspired by hippie counter-culture, Hynde worked in London with Malcom McLaren and Vivienne Westwood at their punk-themed clothing store, SEX. In 1978, she formed her own band, The Pretenders, with Pete Farndon, James Honeyman-Scott and Martin Chambers. As singer, songwriter and guitarist, she has been the only constant member of the band throughout its history. She has also released a number of hits with other musicians including Frank Sinatra and UB40. Hynde and The Pretenders were inducted into the Rock and Roll of Fame in 2005.