Sunday Express

16th April 2023

Page 18

Simple Atomic… Debbie has a blast at 77

By Jaymi McCann

DEBBIE HARRY in her eighth decade still has what it takes to wow the crowds as Blondie begin an international tour.

The 77-year-old singer rolled back the years at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California, strutting in futuristic sunglasses, leather jacket and acid-wash jeans.

Debbie and her band mined their rich back catalogue with hits like One Way Or Another, Heart Of Glass and Atomic.

The star, known for her eccentric style since the New Wave group formed in 1974, told fans: “You’re walking around here with no clothes on. I feel so overdressed.”

The audience was given a surprise treat when legendary record producer and Chic star Nile Rodgers appeared for the band’s 1980 hit Rapture and her 1981 solo track Backfired.

Nile, 70, and Debbie worked together on KooKoo, the album Backfired featured on.

Speaking to the crowd after the performance, Nile said: “This is what happens when old friends say they want to play together.”

The band will play Cardiff Castle on June 16, with five UK dates to follow including the Isle of Wight and Glastonbury festivals, as well as Crystal Palace Park in London.

Fans will be hoping co-founder and guitarist Chris Stein will make it to the British leg after suffering heart problems.