Debbie Harry Admits She No Longer Sees Herself 'Being Onstage As Blondie'

Having been in a band for over 50 years, it’s fair to say that Debbie Harry is proud of her many achievements as the singer of Blondie.

But over five decades, different challenges have presented themselves. Following the recent passing of drummer Clem Burke and the ongoing health issues co-founder Chris Stein—who hasn’t toured with the band since 2019—the proposition of touring again doesn’t quite sit right with Harry.

In a new interview with Vanity Fair, Harry was asked what she’s most proud of in her career so far, and she mentioned being in a band with Chris Stein and Clem Burke.

“Keeping a rock band together for 50 years was like a marriage, and it’s sad that with Clem’s passing and without having Chris onstage, I can’t see myself being onstage as Blondie, even though I am the face of Blondie,” Harry said. “But I’m proud of the music, and I would still like to do music.”

Blondie were working on a new album before Burke’s passing in April this year. The band had teamed up with producer John Congleton for the release, which was planned for later this year.

Harry said of her headspace, “I ran into a wall: the tour ended, Clem died, and wow. What is this space I live in now? I’m curing – I’m doing a cure. And part of that is de-cluttering up my space, which is crowded with that life. I need to get some breath, get some air in there.”

Clem Burke joined Blondie in 1975, not long after singer Debbie Harry and guitarist Chris Stein formed the band in 1974. He played on all of their albums, from their self-titled debut in 1976 to Parallel Lines (1978), Autoamerican (1980), and their latest album, Pollinator (2017). He died following a “private battle with cancer.”

“Clem was not just a drummer; he was the heartbeat of Blondie,” Burke’s bandmates wrote following news of his passing. “His talent, energy, and passion for music were unmatched, and his contributions to our sound and success are immeasurable.

“Beyond his musicianship, Clem was a source of inspiration both on and off the stage. His vibrant spirit, infectious enthusiasm and rock solid work ethic touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”