James Honeyman-Scott

James Honeyman-Scott
Honeyman-Scott in December 1981
Background information
Born(1956-11-04)4 November 1956
Hereford, Herefordshire, England
Died16 June 1982(1982-06-16) (aged 25)
London, England
Genres
Occupations
  • Musician
  • songwriter
Instruments
  • Guitar
  • keyboards
  • vocals
Years active1974–1982
LabelsSire
Formerly ofThe Pretenders

James Honeyman-Scott (4 November 1956 – 16 June 1982) was an English rock guitarist, songwriter and founding member of the band the Pretenders.

Honeyman-Scott established a reputation, in the words of AllMusic, as "one of the most original and versatile guitarists of the early-'80s new wave movement." In addition to his role as lead guitarist, Honeyman-Scott co-wrote a number of songs for the band, sang back-up vocals and played keyboards on a few tracks. Chrissie Hynde wrote "Back on the Chain Gang" as a tribute to him.