Blondie was a popular and influential American band that pioneered the New York new wave and punk scenes in the 1970s. The group was founded by singer Debbie Harry and guitarist Chris Stein in October 1974. They came up with the name Blondie following the shouts of ‘Hey, Blondie’ made by truck drivers as they drove past Debbie Harry.
In December 1976 they released their debut album ‘Blondie’ and then their second album ‘Plastic Letters’ in 1978. However despite both albums being successful in the United Kingdom and Australia they were still largely viewed as an underground band until the release of their third album ‘Parallel Lines’ in 1978. This album contained the hit singles ‘Hanging on the Telephone’, ‘Sunday Girl’ and ‘Heart of Glass’ and was the band’s most successful album selling over 20 million copies globally.
Over the next few years Deborah Harry became well known as the sexy and glamorous face of the band and they continued to produce a score of hits. They became noted for their eclectic mix of musical styles incorporating elements of disco, pop, reggae, and early rap music.
In 1982, after the release of their sixth studio album ‘The Hunter’, Blondie broke up and Debbie Harry embarked on a solo career. However they then reformed in 1997 and toured extensively for the following years. In 2006 they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Debbie Harry of Blondie on a photo shoot taken by legendary Brian Duffy in London in 1977
Blondie headlined at The Palladium, NYC as part of their 1st U.S. Tour. Robert Gordon and Link Wray opened for them.
Debbie Harry, Blondie, at a photoshoot by Mick Rcko in New York, 1978 to accompany an interview to promote the release of Parallel Lines
Blondie were in London for just one day on their second British Tour playing at The Rainbow Theatre, Finsbury Park.
Studio shoot with Debbie Harry, Blondie, who were regarded as an underground band in the US until the release of 'Parallel Lines' in 1978.
Debbie Harry from Blondie captured at photographer Sheila Rock's flat in Holland Park, London in 1977. Her dress matched with the curtains.
Debbie Harry at her home studio in NYC in 1978. Blondie took time off from their busy schedule recording Parallel Lines for this portrait.
Blondie we on their first European Tour playing at The Roundhouse in March 1978.
Taken on the final night of the Blondie European Tour, a relaxed Debbie Harry awaiting her cue whilst the intro plays to the next song.
Debbie Harry (Blondie) at the Apollo Theatre, Glasgow, Scotland, May 1977, kicking off their first UK tour,
Debbie Harry photographed after Blondie's first ever UK gig in May 1977
Debbie Harry of Blondie backstage at the Starwood Club in Los Angeles, USA in April 1978.
Debbie Harry at the Glasgow Apollo, 1977, kicking off their first UK tour supporting American band Television. Blondie were the support act.
In September 1977 Blondie bought back its recording contract with Private Stock Records and signed with British label Chrysalis Records.
Iconic shot of Debbie Harry, Blondie taken by legendary photographer Mick Rock in New York City in 1978
Debbie Harry of Blondie, opening the show at the San Diego Civic Auditorium for Iggy Pop & David Bowie while on their 'Idiot Tour' in 1977.
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