Chrissie Hynde Issue #39

From veganism to Right Guard®, her political leanings to those iconic bangs, the Pretenders’ frontwoman will now take your questions.

By Venus Zine Readers
Published: March 1st, 2009 | 2:40pm

How does being vegan affect being a rockstar? — Mina Bloom, Illinois
“Being a vegan affects every aspect of life. Anyone who finds the stink of the barbeque as offensive as we do will know how it interferes with my concentration during a show when the sickening stench finds its way onto the stage.”

Does it ever get easier dealing with the haters? Being tough, outspoken, gutsy, artistic, creative — and still feminine — does it get easier with time to deflect unfair criticism, obnoxious loudmouths, etc.? — Leslea M. Harmon, Indiana
“I avoid, refuse, to read any reviews, interviews, or my press of any kind. I can’t get myself wound about what people I’ve never met think. Yeah, that’s my advice — don’t ever look at your own press.”

What is the story behind the song “Kid”? The song has always haunted me, and after I became a mother I found it even more deeply affecting. — Mary Perisho, Oklahoma
“’Kid’ is a song about a woman who is on the game to pay her way through life. It wasn’t her first choice, but a sobering reality. She is saddened when her child finds out what she does to pay the bills.”

Why do you hate sports so much? — Brett Marlow, Illinois
“I don’t really hate sports, I just dislike how important they have become. Why??? Every depressed downtown area in the nation is ‘revived’ when a baseball stadium replaces some parking lots. How stupid. I particularly think it’s odd that many artists have turned rock into a sports mentality: Who’s the biggest, who sells the most, who’s in the Hall of Fame? For me, rock should remain a secret between the artist and the audience — not a gladiatorial game. Also, I don’t like the smell of Right Guard®.”

How have you seen through those bangs all these years? — Angie Boehler, Hawaii
“I hire someone to stay near me at all times to lead me.”

What are your thoughts on the 2008 Presidential Election and the current state of our country? — Shannon Ledger, Texas
“The last time I was in the country and voted was in 1972 for McGovern. This year I did come back to vote, but never thought my man would get in. When he did, I sunk to my knees in tears of joy and relief. I think in many ways things will get better. We are in a big mess though. There’s no point in waiting for someone else to change the world. Change yourself. Start by not paying the slaughterman.”