Debbie Harry Pays Tribute to Early Blondie Bassist Fred Smith

The Blondie frontwoman honored the late Television bassist who played in an early incarnation of the band.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Debbie Harry, the lead singer of the iconic band Blondie, has paid tribute to the late Fred Smith, the former bassist of the band Television who played in an early version of Blondie in the 1970s. Harry shared a black-and-white photo of the early band lineup playing at the legendary CBGB club in New York City, honoring Smith's contributions to music before his passing at the age of 77.

Why it matters

Blondie was a pioneering band in the New York punk and new wave scene of the 1970s, and Fred Smith's early involvement with the group helped shape their sound and trajectory. His death marks the passing of an important figure from that influential era of music history.

The details

In 1974, Debbie Harry, Chris Stein, Fred Smith, and drummer Billy O'Connor formed a new band originally called Angel and the Snake, which later became Blondie and the Banzai Babies before settling on just Blondie. Smith left the group in 1975 to replace Richard Hell in the band Television.

  • In 1974, the early Blondie lineup was formed.
  • Smith left Blondie in 1975 to join Television.

The players

Debbie Harry

The lead singer of the iconic band Blondie.

Fred Smith

The former bassist of the band Television who played in an early incarnation of Blondie in the 1970s.

Chris Stein

The guitarist and co-founder of Blondie.

Billy O'Connor

The drummer who was part of the early Blondie lineup.

Richard Hell

The musician who Fred Smith replaced in the band Television.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Rest in peace, Fred Smith. Thank you for your dedication to music — your contributions will not be forgotten.”

— Debbie Harry (Instagram)

The takeaway

Fred Smith's early involvement with Blondie helped shape the iconic band's sound and trajectory during a pivotal time in New York's punk and new wave scene. His passing marks the end of an era and the loss of an important figure from that influential musical movement.