About the song
Released in 1984 as the second single from The Pretenders’ album Learning to Crawl, “Message of Love” stands as one of the band’s most beloved tracks, embodying a spirit of hope, resilience, and the universal power of love. Written by Chrissie Hynde, the song combines the band’s signature mix of rock, punk, and pop influences, with its driving rhythm, energetic vocals, and emotionally charged lyrics, making it both a rallying cry for change and a declaration of compassion in the face of life’s challenges.
The song opens with a propulsive guitar riff that immediately sets the tone—energetic, urgent, and determined. Hynde’s distinctive voice enters, filled with both strength and vulnerability, delivering the song’s message with clarity and purpose. The rhythmic drive created by Martin Chambers’ drumming and Pete Farndon’s bassline keeps the song moving forward, with the guitar work from James Honeyman-Scott adding layers of texture and intensity to the track.
Lyrically, “Message of Love” carries a message of unity and empathy. The song addresses themes of human connection, encouraging the listener to seek out and embrace love as a force for change and healing. With the repeated refrain, “This is a message of love,” the song urges the importance of love in its most unifying and transformative forms. It’s a call to action, challenging listeners to find the strength to be compassionate in the face of hardship, to offer love when the world seems divided or uncertain. The line “When the world gets crazy, I’m gonna get you, I’ll hold you tight” speaks to the protective, nurturing side of love—a promise of comfort and support in times of trouble.
The song’s straightforward but powerful chorus reinforces the theme of love as both a solution and a remedy to life’s difficulties. The line “We can’t go wrong, we’ve got love to save us” emphasizes the idea that, despite external challenges, love remains a force that can heal, guide, and provide hope in the face of adversity. The optimism in the lyrics suggests that even when life feels overwhelming or uncertain, love provides a steady anchor, offering a sense of comfort and security.
Musically, “Message of Love” is a quintessential example of The Pretenders’ sound, blending elements of rock, punk, and new wave with a sense of melodic simplicity and rhythmic urgency. The song’s driving beat and infectious melody make it both a reflection of the energetic punk ethos and a more refined, mainstream appeal. The way the song builds in intensity, both musically and lyrically, mirrors the empowering message it carries. It’s a track that’s both fun and reflective, offering a perfect balance of lightheartedness and depth.
Upon its release, “Message of Love” became a staple on both rock and new wave radio stations, resonating with fans of The Pretenders and further solidifying their place as one of the most distinctive and influential bands of the 1980s. The song’s popularity stemmed not only from its infectious melody but also from its relatable message, which resonated with listeners who sought a sense of hope and unity in the midst of a divided world.
The legacy of “Message of Love” has only grown with time. Its themes of compassion, unity, and the healing power of love continue to resonate with new generations of listeners, while its upbeat energy remains a signature of The Pretenders’ catalog. The song has been included in numerous playlists, films, and TV shows, often used to evoke feelings of hope and strength in the face of difficult circumstances.
Today, “Message of Love” remains one of The Pretenders’ most enduring and recognizable songs. Its universal message, catchy riff, and infectious chorus make it a song that still inspires listeners to embrace love as a force for good and change. Whether you’re singing along to its empowering lyrics or reflecting on its deeper message, “Message of Love” continues to be a reminder that, no matter the challenges we face, love has the power to unite, heal, and bring us together.
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