**Erasure’s Andy Bell Reveals How Blondie’s Debbie Harry Inspired Him to Find His Voice**
Andy Bell, renowned as one half of the iconic synth-pop duo Erasure, has opened up about the profound influence Blondie’s frontwoman Debbie Harry had on his journey to self-acceptance, crediting her with helping him come out as a teenager. Bell, whose distinctive vocals helped propel Erasure to global success, reflected on his musical roots and the personal impact of his idols while promoting his newly released solo album, *Ten Crowns*.
Born in 1964, Bell is synonymous with hits such as “A Little Respect,” “Sometimes,” and “Always”—songs that remain beloved by fans of the 80s and 90s pop scene. But in a recent interview, the singer revealed that Debbie Harry’s artistry and bold presence left a mark on him long before he stepped onto the global stage himself.
“Debbie Harry was my teenage idol,” Bell said, recalling those formative years with a nostalgic smile. “I was absolutely smitten. Watching her perform on television, with that striking halo of backlit hair, she became more than just a music star—she was an icon of confidence.” Inspired by her distinctive look, Bell even attempted to emulate her signature style as a teenager. “I remember buying hair bleach and showing up to school with my freshly dyed hair and a Blondie t-shirt. It felt empowering, like I was taking control of my identity.”
Bell credits Harry’s unapologetic approach to her own image and music as pivotal in his journey towards accepting his sexuality. “In a way, she helped me begin to come out before I’d even fully come to terms with being gay,” he admitted. For Bell, the music of Blondie was a safe haven, whether he was listening privately in his bedroom or playing records on a turntable tucked into his wardrobe to create more resonance.
The latest chapter in Bell’s career sees him collaborate directly with his former idol. His track “Heart’s A Liar” features vocals from Debbie Harry herself—a dream come true for the singer. The process, however, was far from instantaneous. “The collaboration took about a year to come together, but fittingly, the vocals arrived while we were in New York for a Gay Pride festival,” Bell shared. “It felt serendipitous—so much of Debbie’s magic seems to come down to timing.”
This partnership feels particularly poignant for Bell, who never imagined as a young music enthusiast that he would one day share a song with the star who helped him on his personal journey. “If you had told my teenage self that I’d collaborate with Debbie Harry, I simply would not have believed it,” he remarked with genuine awe.
Touring remains a major part of Bell’s life, and the “Ten Crowns” tour, which began in May 2025, is set to take him across the UK and to audiences in Ireland, Denmark, Germany, and North America. As he continues to perform, Bell also reflects on the progress and challenges facing LGBTQ+ musicians today.
While acknowledging advances in acceptance and representation, Bell is candid about the pressures that persist within the music industry. He points out, “There’s still a long way to go for real inclusivity. Success can be fleeting, and the industry can be brutal—artists need resilience to withstand both the praise and the pitfalls.” Offering advice to emerging LGBTQ+ talent, Bell encourages authenticity and warns against being swept up by sudden fame. “Don’t let the hype go to your head,” he cautioned. “Stay true to yourself and keep your core intact, because the industry can treat you as everything one day and nothing the next.”
Looking back on his decades-long partnership with Vince Clarke as Erasure, Bell expresses gratitude for the recognition they received, including a BRIT Award and multiple chart-topping albums. But it is clear that the journey has brought him more than just accolades; it has been marked by personal growth and the support of musical mentors like Debbie Harry.
As Bell prepares to take his new music to stages across the world, his story stands as a testament to the enduring impact of queer icons and the strength artists derive from those who break boundaries before them.