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The Pretty Reckless

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Band Timeline

2009

Formation of The Pretty Reckless

The Pretty Reckless was formed in 2009 in New York City by lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Taylor Momsen, former actress known for roles such as in Gossip Girl. Initially named The Reckless, they changed their name due to trademark conflicts. The original lineup included Momsen, guitarist John Secolo, bassist Matt Chiarelli, and drummer Nick Carbone. They played their first show on May 5, 2009, and opened for The Veronicas on tour. Over the first years, there were lineup changes leading to the current members: Momsen, Ben Phillips on lead guitar, Mark Damon on bass, and Jamie Perkins on drums. The band developed a rock sound under producer Kato Khandwala.
2010

Release of Debut Album 'Light Me Up' and Early Success

In 2010, The Pretty Reckless released their debut EP in June, followed by their first full-length album 'Light Me Up' in August under Interscope Records. The album featured the single "Make Me Wanna Die," which gained exposure by appearing in the film Kick-Ass. The album contained moderately successful singles like "Miss Nothing" and established the band in the rock scene. That year, they participated in major festivals such as The Bamboozle and Warped Tour, and supported Evanescence on tour, gaining wider audience visibility.
2012

Release of 'Hit Me Like a Man' EP

In early 2012, The Pretty Reckless released the EP 'Hit Me Like a Man'. The band continued to build their presence in rock music, setting the stage for their upcoming second studio album.
2014

Breakthrough with Second Album 'Going to Hell'

The Pretty Reckless released their second studio album 'Going to Hell' on March 12, 2014 through Razor & Tie. Despite obstacles like Hurricane Sandy destroying early recordings, the album went on to debut at number five on the Billboard 200, the band's highest chart position to date. Singles such as "Heaven Knows" and "Messed Up World (F'd Up World)" topped both US and UK rock charts, pushing the band's popularity significantly. The album had mixed to positive reviews, marking an evolution in sound and lyrical themes, and was supported by the extensive Going to Hell Tour.
2016

Continued Success with Third Album 'Who You Selling For'

Released on October 21, 2016, 'Who You Selling For' was The Pretty Reckless's third studio album and marked continued commercial success. Produced by Kato Khandwala, the album featured the lead single "Take Me Down" which secured the band's fourth number-one on the US Mainstream Rock chart. The album debuted at number 13 on the US Billboard 200. Songs like "Oh My God" and "Back to the River" also contributed to the album’s acclaim. The band toured extensively to promote the album, further cementing their status in modern rock.
2018

Passing of Producer Kato Khandwala

In 2018, The Pretty Reckless faced a major loss when their longtime producer Kato Khandwala died due to injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. Khandwala had been integral to the band’s sound and success since their inception. This tragedy deeply affected the band, especially frontwoman Taylor Momsen, leading to a difficult period that influenced their subsequent work.
2021

Release of Fourth Album 'Death by Rock and Roll' and Historic Chart Achievement

On February 12, 2021, The Pretty Reckless released their fourth studio album 'Death by Rock and Roll' under Fearless Records. The album followed a period of mourning for their late producer and covered themes of loss, resilience, and determination. The title track and singles like "And So It Went" featuring Tom Morello showcased a matured, hard rock and grunge-influenced sound. Notably, the band became the first female-fronted band to achieve seven number-one singles on the Mainstream Rock chart, marking a historic achievement in rock music.

Albums

the-pretty-reckless_1st_album
Light Me Up
12 tracks
2010
the-pretty-reckless_2nd_album
Going to Hell
14 tracks
2014
the-pretty-reckless_3rd_album
Who You Selling For
12 tracks
2016
the-pretty-reckless_4th_album
Death by Rock and Roll
12 tracks
2021
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Taylor Momsen

2009

Electric guitar

Lead vocals

Jamie Perkins

2010

Drums (drum set)

Mark Damon

2010

Bass guitar

Ben Phillips

N/A

Story of The Pretty Reckless

The Pretty Reckless: A Rock Force to Be Reckoned With

The Pretty Reckless, a hard-hitting rock band from the heart of New York City, burst onto the scene in 2009, bringing a raw and energetic sound. Fronted by the captivating Taylor Momsen (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), the band is rounded out by the talents of Ben Phillips (lead guitar, backing vocals), Mark Damon (bass), and Jamie Perkins (drums).

Their debut album, Light Me Up (2010), ignited the rock world with its edgy anthems. The album's breakout single, "Make Me Wanna Die," solidified their presence and established them as a force to be reckoned with. They followed up with the Hit Me Like a Man EP (2012), showcasing their continued evolution and raw power.

The Pretty Reckless hit their stride with their sophomore album, Going to Hell (2014). The album's anthems, "Heaven Knows" and "Messed Up World," reigned supreme on both the US and UK rock charts, solidifying their international appeal.

In 2016, Who You Selling For continued their reign, featuring the hit single "Take Me Down," which marked their fourth number one on the US rock charts. The band's relentless drive and talent were on full display in their fourth studio album, Death by Rock and Roll, released in 2021. With its lead single, "Death by Rock and Roll," reaching the top of the Mainstream Rock chart, the Pretty Reckless made history as the first female-fronted band to boast seven number one singles.

The Pretty Reckless continue to push boundaries and dominate the rock scene with their fearless attitude and electrifying performances. Their music speaks to a generation yearning for authenticity, raw energy, and a touch of rebellion, proving that The Pretty Reckless are not just a band, but a force to be reckoned with.

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