“Brass In Pocket” by The Pretenders
The easiest way to interpret The Pretenders’ “Brass In Pocket” is as it being centered on a female character, that being a singer, who is trying to allure a particular romantic interest. And there are certain attributes which she possesses that she intends to use to accomplish that goal.
For instance, there is the titular “brass in pocket”, which basically means that she is holding money. But this is not to imply that she intends to buy the guy. Rather this is one of a number of personal attributes she mentions which are ultimately giving her the heart to be so bold in her pursuit. Or we can say that she is actually mustering up the courage to seduce the addressee. And overall, in utilizing her body, material resources and style, she appears supremely confident that she will in fact accomplish this goal.
“Brass In Pocket” Facts
Writing:
- Chrissie Hynde
- James Honeyman-Scott
Production: Chris Thomas
Album: The Pretenders maiden album, “Pretenders”
Release: November of 1979
Charts
This was the first song to occupy the number 1 spot on the UK Singles Chart in 1980. Simply put, it was the UK’s first number 1 hit of the 1980s. In addition tot the UK, it was also a number 1 in South Africa and Sweden.
Furthermore, it was a top-ten chart hit in these countries:
- Australia
- Ireland
- Canada
- Netherlands
- France
- New Zealand
- Spain
Billboard Hot 100
It was unable to peak within the top-10 of the Hot 100. However, it managed to rise to the impressive position of #14.
Other Songs that were Number 1 in UK in 1980
- Blondie’s “Atomic”
- Kenny Rogers’ “Coward of the County”
- ABBA’s “The Winner Takes It All”
- David Bowie’s “Ashes To Ashes”
- The Police’s “Don’t Stand So Close To Me“
