Reactivated Danish hard rock veterans PRETTY MAIDS are generating significant buzz within the music community following recent interviews with vocalist Ronnie Atkins, who has opened the door to the possibility of new material and continued touring for the iconic band. In a candid conversation with the Czech Republic’s Project Backstage, Atkins indicated that while a follow-up to the band’s 2019 album "Undress Your Madness" was not initially planned, discussions are underway, suggesting new music could materialize "at some point." This development marks a hopeful turn for fans who have eagerly awaited further output from the enduring rock act.
The prospect of new music comes after PRETTY MAIDS’ significant return to the live stage. On June 16, 2024, the band performed their first concert in nearly five years under the moniker KINGMAKERS for a "secret" warm-up gig at Forbrændingen in Albertslund, Denmark. This intimate event served as a prelude to their official comeback on June 20, 2024, at the prestigious Copenhell festival in Copenhagen, signaling a renewed commitment to their dedicated fanbase.
Atkins, who has been publicly battling stage four cancer, has previously spoken about the band’s return with a pragmatic yet passionate outlook. In December 2023, he informed Jorge Botas of Portugal’s Metal Global about their plans for a limited series of selected PRETTY MAIDS shows, estimating "maybe five, six festivals during the summer or something." He emphasized that this return was partly driven by a desire to provide a sense of closure for fans, acknowledging the abrupt halt to their previous touring cycle due to his illness.
"I know there’s a lot of fans out there that wanna see the band again, at least to make some kind of closure," Atkins stated. "It all ended in a wrong way because I got sick, and while I was sick, I couldn’t do shit for six months. And in that time, we released a new album. We never had the chance to tour with it. Then came the lockdown. So we just wanna go out and play a couple of shows."
A Legacy of Rock and Resilience
Formed in early 1982 by Ronnie Atkins and guitarist Ken Hammer, PRETTY MAIDS quickly established themselves as a formidable force in the European hard rock scene. Their breakthrough came with their second album, 1987’s "Future World," an enduring classic that continues to be celebrated by rock aficionados. The album, released by CBS, achieved significant commercial success, selling an impressive 300,000 copies worldwide by 1990 and even charting at number 165 on the Billboard 200 in the United States.
The production of "Future World" itself was a notable chapter in the band’s history. Initially helmed by legendary producer Eddie Kramer, the sessions reportedly encountered difficulties, leading to Kramer’s departure. The band then enlisted engineer Chris Isca to complete the LP, with Isca receiving co-producer credit. The crucial mixing duties were handled by a formidable duo: Flemming Rasmussen, known for his work with Metallica, Rainbow, and Morbid Angel, and Kevin Elson, whose production credits include multi-platinum albums for Journey, Mr. Big, and Europe. This caliber of production expertise underscored the ambition and potential of PRETTY MAIDS during this pivotal period.
Following the success of "Future World," PRETTY MAIDS consistently released albums, typically accompanied by extensive European and Japanese tours. This pattern of creative output and live engagement solidified their reputation as a dedicated and hardworking band. Their most recent studio album, "Undress Your Madness," was released in November 2019 through Frontiers Music Srl, continuing their long-standing relationship with the Italian label.
Navigating Health Challenges and Artistic Rebirth
Ronnie Atkins’ personal journey has been marked by significant health battles, which have inevitably influenced the band’s trajectory. Diagnosed with lung cancer in 2019, the then-61-year-old vocalist underwent extensive treatment, including at least 33 radiation and four chemotherapy sessions in the fall of that year. He was subsequently declared cancer-free. However, in October 2020, he announced that his cancer had returned, a development that understandably cast a shadow over future plans.
Despite these formidable challenges, Atkins has demonstrated remarkable resilience and a persistent drive to create and perform. In recent years, he has also focused on his solo career, releasing a considerable amount of new music. His third solo album, "Trinity," was released in October 2023, also via Frontiers Music Srl. This solo work has provided an additional avenue for his artistic expression and has kept him connected with his audience.
Atkins’ perspective on performing live has evolved, with a strong emphasis on connection with the fans. "I really love to do that," he expressed regarding live shows. "‘Cause I like the close encounter with the fans, whether it’s a big festival with 50,000 or it’s 200 people in a club, I don’t care. I mean, I like them both, actually." This sentiment highlights a deep appreciation for the energy and interaction that live performances provide, regardless of the scale.
The Road Ahead: A Calculated Return
The decision to return to the stage, even for a limited number of shows, represents a significant commitment for Atkins and the band. The "secret" KINGMAKERS performance and subsequent Copenhell appearance were carefully orchestrated to gauge their readiness and to reconnect with the live environment. The fact that these shows went ahead, and that discussions for new music are now taking place, suggests a positive outlook on Atkins’ health and the band’s overall capacity to engage with their audience.
The implication of Atkins’ statements is that the band is not necessarily embarking on a full-scale reunion tour or a relentless album cycle. Instead, their return appears to be a more measured and deliberate approach, prioritizing quality over quantity and being mindful of Atkins’ health. This strategy allows them to fulfill their commitments to fans and to continue their musical legacy without overextending themselves.
Broader Impact and Fan Reception
The news of potential new music from PRETTY MAIDS is likely to be met with widespread enthusiasm from their long-standing fanbase. The band has cultivated a loyal following over four decades, and the prospect of new material represents a significant event. Their ability to continue creating and performing, even in the face of adversity, serves as an inspiration and a testament to their enduring passion for music.
The band’s careful approach to their return also reflects a modern trend in the music industry, where artists, particularly those who have faced health challenges or have established extensive careers, are increasingly prioritizing their well-being and focusing on meaningful engagements. This approach ensures longevity and sustainability for both the artists and their careers.
While specific details regarding the timeline for new music or the extent of future live performances remain unannounced, Ronnie Atkins’ recent comments provide a clear indication of PRETTY MAIDS’ continued artistic vitality. The band’s journey, marked by iconic albums, dedicated touring, and remarkable resilience, continues to captivate and inspire, promising further chapters in their storied career. The ongoing dialogue about new music and live shows signifies not just a return, but a carefully considered continuation of a legacy that has profoundly impacted the hard rock landscape.
