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Debbie Harry

by Sam
Famous women over 50 - biography of female celebrity Debbie Harry, of Blondie who sang Heart of Glass

DEBBIE HARRY BIOGRAPHY:

Early Life and Career

Debbie Harry was born Deborah Ann Harry on July 1, 1945, in Miami, Florida. She is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She is best known as the lead vocalist of the band Blondie, which gained significant success in the late 1970s and early 1980s. 

Growing up in New Jersey, Deborah Harry started her career as a backup singer and waitress. She performed with various bands in New York City. In the mid-1970s, she co-founded Blondie with guitarist Chris Stein. The band’s blend of punk, new wave, and pop music brought them international fame. Blondie’s breakthrough came with the release of their third album, “Parallel Lines,” in 1978. The album spawned hits like “Heart of Glass” (video below), “Call Me,” and “One Way or Another,” establishing Blondie as one of the leading bands of the era.

Harry’s distinctive voice and unique style made her an icon of the punk and new wave movements. Her edgy and energetic performances captivated audiences around the world. In addition to her singing career, she also ventured into acting. She appeared in films such as “Videodrome” (1983), “Hairspray” (1988), and “Cop Land” (1997), showcasing her versatility as an artist.

Throughout her career, Harry released several solo albums, including “KooKoo” (1981), “Rockbird” (1986), and “Debravation” (1993). Although her solo work achieved moderate success, it was her contributions to Blondie that left an indelible mark on the music industry. The band disbanded in 1982, but reunited in the late 1990s and continued to release new music and tour.

Personal Life of Debbie Harry

Outside of her professional endeavors, Harry’s personal life has also been a subject of interest. She had relationships with various musicians and artists, including Chris Stein and fellow musician Iggy Pop. Harry has been open about her struggles with substance abuse and her experiences in the music industry. Despite these challenges, she remains an influential figure in the music scene, inspiring generations of artists with her unique style and fearless attitude.

Debbie Harry’s contributions to music and her iconic status have earned her numerous accolades and recognition. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Blondie in 2006, and continues to perform and create music to this day. 

Video for”Heart of Glass” – Blondie