Blondie are set to receive the NME Godlike Genius Award.
The ‘One Way Or Another’ hitmakers will be recognised for their musical genius at the NME Awards 2014 with Austin, Texas on Wednesday, February 26.
The iconic band, fronted by Debbie Harry, have confirmed they will pick up their prize in person and perform at the event, held at the O2 Academy in Brixton, and it’s the first time a female performer has won the accolade.
Blondie said: "We’ve always had a special relationship with the UK and this is great, it’s nice to be recognised and it’s an outstanding list. To be honoured so nicely, and to play music. What could be better?"
The punk group from New York City are celebrating their 40th anniversary with a two-disc release, ‘Blondie 4(0) Ever’, comprising a greatest hits album and a new record, ‘Ghosts of Download’, in May 2014.
NME’s Editor Mike Williams said: "As they celebrate their 40th anniversary, there could be no other band more worthy of being honoured as NME’s Godlike Genius 2014 than Blondie. They re-wrote the rulebook in the late 70s by dragging punk rock to the top of the charts, and their classic songs still sounds as fresh as ever today.
"Everyone from Iggy Pop, Lily Allen, Lady Gaga and Julian Casablancas have looked to Debbie Harry for inspiration – she’s the most iconic frontwoman rock’n’roll has ever produced. It goes without saying that NME is hugely proud, not to mention extremely excited, to be honouring her and Blondie with our most coveted award in 2014."
Previous winners include The Clash, Paul Weller, The Cure, Manic Street Preachers, New Order & Joy Division, Dave Grohl, Noel Gallagher and last year’s champion Johnny Marr.
Blondie to receive NME Godlike Genius Award
