A new memoir is on its way from Debbie Harry. Face It, from the Blondie front woman and cultural icon, is coming October 1 via Dey Street Books, an imprint of the William Morrow Group at HarperCollins Publishers.
Face It, says the announcement, “is an arresting mix of visceral storytelling and stunning visuals that reflects the complexity of its subject. In her distinctive voice, Debbie Harry recreates the downtown scene of 1970s New York City, where she, with Blondie, played alongside everyone from The Ramones, Television, Talking Heads, Iggy Pop and David Bowie. With all the grit, grime and glory recounted in intimate detail, Face It takes readers from the New York underground to global superstardom and the creation of some of the most beloved pop songs of all-time.
Blondie broke through in 1979 with the worldwide #1 smash, “Heart of Glass.” In the ensuing years, they enjoyed three more #1 hits.
“Harry… shares the breadth of her fascinating life and career, with never-before seen personal images, brilliantly curated fan-art, and memories from the highs and lows of her life as a pioneering feminist, and muse to generations of fans and artists.”
It explores her successful acting career – she has starred in over 30 film roles – her weekends with William S. Burroughs and her attempted abduction by serial killer Ted Bundy.
The book is written in collaboration with journalist and author, Sylvie Simmons, based on a series of recent exclusive personal interviews, and also includes original essays by Harry.
“I didn’t want to, but I did,” said Harry. “There are many more stories for me to tell; some funny, some scary, some warm, some chill to the bone and if Face It appeals to people then I will get to telling more of the anecdotal bits of the story of Blondie. This book is biographical and covers a lot of years. I know there will be questions asked because in putting this together, I realized I have led a very full life and couldn’t possibly cover everything in just one volume. I’m prepared for the best and the worst comments, much like when I have released an album or done a big show. I don’t have a thick skin, but I do have a pretty good sense of humor.”
Harry was born July 1, 1945. She turned 74 in 2019.
While being acclaimed as one of the most beautiful women in the world, prized by a galaxy of leading photographers and fashion designers, beloved by legions of fans for her relentless, high-octane performances, selling 50 million albums or being painted by Andy Warhol—Harry has infused her Blondie persona with a heady mix of raw sexuality and sophisticated punk cool.
The book includes an introduction by her partner, Chris Stein, rare personal photos, original illustrations, fan artwork installations and more.
Related: Looking back at Blondie’s smash Parallel Lines album
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