A Rock Icon’s Next Chapter
By Bonnie Siegler
Time has done little to dim Pat Benatar’s fire. If anything, the legendary rock star is burning brighter than ever, her voice still as powerful, her presence still commanding, and her mission still unwavering. In the years since we last caught up with her, Benatar has continued to defy expectations—earning long-overdue accolades, keeping her music alive for new generations, and standing firm in her commitment to advocacy.
From her long-awaited Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction to her latest musical projects and continued activism, Benatar remains a true force. So, what’s new with this trailblazing artist? A lot, as it turns out.
ROCK & ROLL IMMORTALITY
For decades, fans and critics alike wondered why Pat Benatar wasn’t in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. After all, she was one of the defining voices of the ‘80s, with hits like Love is a Battlefield, Heartbreaker, and Hit Me with Your Best Shot helping to shape the sound of a generation. The oversight was baffling—until 2022, when justice was finally served.
That year, Benatar and her longtime collaborator, guitarist, and husband Neil Giraldo were inducted into the Hall of Fame, solidifying their legacy. It was a moment of both celebration and reflection.
“It’s about damn time,” fans exclaimed, echoing a sentiment long shared in rock circles. Benatar herself was gracious yet firm, acknowledging the significance of the moment—not just for her, but for all female rock artists who had to fight for their place in the industry.
During the induction ceremony, she and Giraldo delivered a rousing performance that proved why they still belong on the biggest stages. Their chemistry—both musical and personal—remained electric, a testament to a partnership that has endured for over four decades.
A REFUSAL TO PLAY BY THE RULES
True to her rebellious spirit, Benatar has made headlines in recent years for taking a stand on a subject close to her heart: gun violence. In 2022, she announced she would no longer perform Hit Me with Your Best Shot, one of her most famous songs, out of respect for victims of gun violence.
“We’re not doing it,” she told USA Today. “Fans are having a heart attack, and I’m like, I’m sorry. In deference to the victims and the families, I just can’t.”
While some fans protested, others applauded her decision. It was a classic Benatar move—bold, uncompromising, and rooted in her own moral compass. She has always been an artist who sings what she believes, and in today’s world, she refuses to ignore the power of her platform.
NEW MUSIC, SAME PASSION
While Benatar’s classic hits remain as beloved as ever, she and Giraldo haven’t stopped making music. Their latest project, Invincible – The Musical, debuted in 2022, bringing a fresh perspective to some of their most iconic songs. Inspired by Romeo and Juliet, the musical reimagines the classic tragedy with a modern twist, infused with the fiery energy of Benatar’s biggest hits.
The production allowed Benatar and Giraldo to push their creativity in new directions. “It’s been a labour of love,” she said in an interview. “Bringing our music into a different space, telling a new story—it’s been incredible.”
In addition to theatre, Benatar has hinted at new music on the horizon. While she’s not churning out albums at the breakneck pace of her early career, she remains deeply engaged in the creative process, always looking for ways to evolve her sound.
STILL TOURING, STILL THRIVING
Despite having nothing left to prove, Benatar and Giraldo continue to tour relentlessly, bringing their music to audiences old and new. Their recent performances have showcased not only their enduring talent but also their commitment to staying connected with fans.
These days, Benatar doesn’t just see her concerts as nostalgia trips; they’re celebrations of resilience, empowerment, and a lifetime of making music on her own terms.
Her voice remains as strong as ever, and her setlists—packed with anthems of strength and defiance—serve as a reminder of just how much she has influenced generations of women in rock.
LOOKING AHEAD
At this stage in her career, Benatar could easily rest on her laurels. Instead, she keeps pushing forward, whether it’s through new music, activism, or simply refusing to slow down.
Her legacy is undeniable. She shattered barriers for female rock artists, proved that women could be just as commanding on stage as their male counterparts, and has spent decades living by her own rules.
And if you think she’s done, think again. As always, Pat Benatar is ready for whatever comes next.
Hit us with your next shot, Pat—we’re listening.
