Debbie Harry Pays Tribute to Early Blondie Bassist Fred Smith

The late Television bassist played in an early incarnation of the band that became Blondie.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Debbie Harry has paid tribute to late Television bassist Fred Smith, who played in an early version of the band that went on to become Blondie. Smith passed away on February 5 at the age of 77. Harry shared a black-and-white photo of the early band playing at New York's CBGB in 1975, featuring herself, Smith, and backup singers Tish Bellomo and Snooky Bellomo.

Why it matters

Fred Smith was an important part of the early Blondie lineup, playing bass before the band solidified its iconic new wave sound and image. His departure to join Television was a significant moment in the evolution of both bands.

The details

In 1974, current Blondie members Debbie Harry and guitarist Chris Stein, along with Smith and drummer Billy O'Connor, who were previously in the band Stillettoes together, formed a new band originally named Angel and the Snake. The band name was eventually changed to Blondie and the Banzai Babies, and then became just Blondie. Smith left the group in 1975 to replace Richard Hell in Television.

  • Fred Smith passed away on February 5, 2026 at the age of 77.
  • The early Blondie lineup featuring Fred Smith performed at CBGB in New York in 1975.

The players

Debbie Harry

The lead singer of the band Blondie, who paid tribute to early Blondie bassist Fred Smith.

Fred Smith

The late bassist who played in an early incarnation of the band that became Blondie, before leaving to join the band Television.

Tish Bellomo

A backup singer who performed with the early Blondie lineup featuring Fred Smith.

Snooky Bellomo

A backup singer who performed with the early Blondie lineup featuring Fred Smith.

Chris Stein

The guitarist of Blondie, who was part of the early Blondie lineup with Fred Smith.

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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 role in the early days of Blondie highlights the interconnected nature of the New York punk and new wave scenes in the 1970s, as musicians moved between influential bands and helped shape the sound of the era.