August 28, 2011

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Before Madonna or Lady Gaga clawed from nobodies to blonde icons, Blondie lead singer Debbie Harry riveted fans with her vixenish looks, edgy lyrics and wild style.

The former Playboy bunny and beautician helped turn a struggling New York City punk/New Wave band into a global pop-rock sensation.

Intermittently rocking in recent years but back on the road since Sept. 4, Blondie issues its ninth album, Panic of Girls, in the U.S. on Sept. 13.

Sure, its reggae lilts and French lyrics may seem familiar, but even after a 37-year career, 40 million albums sold and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame enshrinement, Blondie’s freedom-loving frontwoman still may surprise you:

I LIKE ORDER.

The only time I play background music is when I’m driving. It’s a closed environment, like a sound booth, and everything’s very controlled. I have a lot of responsibilities and irons in the fire, and I’m calmer and think better if things are organized. While I can’t say I’m a total minimalist, that’s why nothing hangs on my fridge. I hate refrigerator clutter.

HIT THE ROAD.

I love speedy cars. If I could pick any car, it’d be a really sporty Ferrari, Lotus, Audi or limited-edition Nissan roadster. I love cars that are very responsive and can get you out of a spot. The drone of driving is very hypnotic, and I’m my most creative when behind the wheel. For me, a lot of songs are born on the road.

I MAKE DELICIOUS PASTA SAUCE.

An Italian neighbor taught my mom how to make a really fine bolognese with meatballs and caramelized onions. It simmers for hours. I expanded on the recipe, adding different sweet and spicy sausages, which make it chunkier, thicker and more peasantlike.

I'D LOVE TO BE BEACHED.

I wish I’d grown up near beaches because if I’d started younger, I’d have become a great surfer. I love big waves and riding waves. I swim and body surf. I love to unwind on Hawaiian beaches – the ocean is very exciting.

I HAD A CRUSH ON ELVIS PRESLEY.

That was in grade school, and at various times I loved all the Beatles and the Rolling Stones’ Keith Richards. But my enthusiasm was always more about the music, not the men.

I SHRED MY CLOTHES.

I sew or adapt my own clothes, including for the stage. I like clothes that are deconstructed or have various depths and shapes, like a Cubist painting. They catch your eye.

ONE SONG MAKES ME LAUGH.

A favorite memory on tour was when we got stuck in traffic for hours and, when we finally started moving, Chris (Stein, longtime boyfriend) started singing Born Free. It wasn’t so much the song. His timing was perfect.

Go see Blondie the group if you get the chance! They are still great.

I have the same fondness for driving and listening to music in the car!