A founding member of Blondie, a legendary new wave rock band, known for iconic hits like "Heart of Glass" and "Call Me", and a pioneer of punk-infused pop music.
Chris Stein, born January 5, 1950, is an American musician best known as the co-founder and lead guitarist of the iconic new wave band Blondie. With his unique guitar riffs and songwriting skills, Stein has been instrumental in shaping the sound of Blondie, which has become synonymous with the late 1970s and early 1980s punk and new wave movement.
In 1973, Stein joined the Stillettoes as guitarist, where he met his future bandmate and romantic partner, Debbie Harry. The two, along with the band's rhythm section, left to form Blondie in 1974. They quickly became fixtures in the New York City punk and new wave scene, frequenting legendary clubs like CBGB and Max's Kansas City.
Stein is an accomplished photographer, having documented the early days of the New York City punk scene, Blondie's rise to fame, and his collaborations with artists like Andy Warhol and H.R. Giger. His photography was published in the 2014 book Chris Stein/Negative: Me, Blondie, and the Advent of Punk, which was launched with an exhibition curated by Jeffrey Deitch at the Chelsea Hotel's Storefront Gallery.
Blondie's music and style, heavily influenced by Stein's guitar work and songwriting, have had a lasting impact on pop culture. The band's iconic hits continue to inspire new generations of musicians and artists. Stein's photography has also contributed to the visual legacy of the punk and new wave movement.
Stein has been recognized for his contributions to music and photography, including his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Blondie in 2006.
Chris Stein's work with Blondie has left an indelible mark on the music industry. As a guitarist, songwriter, and photographer, Stein has been a key figure in shaping the sound and aesthetic of the punk and new wave movement. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and artists.
80 Years Old
Lead singer of Blondie, known for iconic new wave and punk-infused hits like "Heart of Glass" and "Call Me", with a distinctive voice and style that defined 80s music.
71 Years Old
Legendary drummer for Blondie, known for his energetic stage presence and iconic beats on hits like "Heart of Glass" and "Call Me".
74 Years Old
British bassist and songwriter behind new wave and post-punk bands like Blondie and Freak Power, crafting catchy hooks and iconic riffs. Known for his work on hits like "The Tide is High" and "Turn On, Tune In, Cop Out".
78 Years Old
A punk rock icon and Godfather of Punk, known for his outrageous stage antics, raw energy, and hits like "Lust for Life" and "The Passenger".
79 Years Old
A trailblazing musician and performer who blurred the lines between rock, pop, and theater, known for his bold style, innovative music videos, and iconic personas like Ziggy Stardust.
