Blondie - Parallel Lines - 1978

A true classic album for our 3rd LP deep dive - do we think that Blondie's most revered record stands the test of time? We talk about the history of the iconic band, how they came together, and what were the ingredients that made this, their 3rd LP, so special. All six members of the band - Debbie Harry, Chris Stein, Clem Burke, Jimmy Destri, Nigel Harrison and Frank Infante - had songwriting credits on the record, and so we look at their contributions on the twelve tracks, along with the three covers included on the album. It was a surprise to discover that one of these songs was actually not a Blondie original, and so we created a top 10 list of cover songs you probably didn't know were cover songs. Let us know if you have any suggestions to add that should have made our list!
The instantly recognisable album cover is discussed including why the band were not happy with it even though it has been lauded ever since. There have been numerous reenactments of the sleeve artwork, inclduing a Britpop frontman looking very fetching as Debbie Harry - find out who it is! We also look at where the album title, Parallel Lines, came from and highlight a wonderful documentary and a brilliant live performance on The Old Grey Whistle Test from New Years Eve 1979 in Glasgow - what a way to usher in the new decade! Links below.
Finally 1978 gets our full attention. As well as reviewing what was competing with Blondie in the album and singles charts from September 1978, we discover what was dominating the movie charts. Maybe you too believed a man could fly!

LINKS

Blondie's New York....& The Making Of Parallel Lines
Blondie - Apollo Theatre, Glasgow, 1979 (BBC Four broadcast, 2007)

BBC TV's "Swap Shop" 22 12 79 with Debbie Harry and Chris Stein