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Deborah’s panache & punk persona is unique, as is her strong support for upcoming generations of female musicians. She took a tomboy childhood, junior college degree, and artistic talents to become the lead singer of the world-renowned, new wave band Blondie, whom she’s fronted for fifty years. The band has sold over 40 million records worldwide, and is in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Deborah and partner Chris Stein were in and out of various bands before forming Blondie, whose music touched on numerous styles, but always with a punk undertone. Early attention from David Bowie and Iggy Pop led to them opening for the later and gaining some notoriety, but it was an Australian TV program’s playing of the B-side video “In The Flesh” that garnered attention. Within two years, they had a #1 record with multiple hit singles.
Blondie has come and gone over the years, and Deborah has been involved in various musical and film efforts. In 2011, she was inspired by Elton John’s HIV/AIDS efforts to make philanthropy a top priority. She has also embraced a mentor role for up and coming female artists, reminding them to "Never get mired in the past & always accept new things, whatever age your are."