Main content

When Blondie Came to Britain

The story of Britain’s long relationship with Blondie - the part it played in helping the band to international success and the impact the band had on British fans and musicians.

In 1977, a small and relatively unknown group called Blondie arrived in Bournemouth ahead of their first ever UK tour. This is the story of the key part Britain played in helping break one of the world’s most influential bands and examines a special relationship that has endured for nearly 50 years.

Featuring rare and unseen archive material – including photographs taken by guitarist Chris Stein - this documentary charts Blondie’s rise from that first student union gig in Bournemouth, supported by Squeeze (including a 19-year-old Jools Holland) through to 2023 and an unforgettable performance on Glastonbury’s iconic Pyramid Stage.

9 months left to watch

59 minutes

Last on

Mon 7 Jul 202501:50
BBC Four

Clips

See all clips from When Blondie Came to Britain(2)

Credits

DirectorKate Siney
EditorLia Hayes
Executive ProducerMark Robinson
Production CompanyWise Owl Films

Broadcasts

Featured in...

  • Music Icons

    Discover the greatest collection ever, with musicians whose music influenced the world.

  • Rock & Indie

    Rock out with the best Rock and Indie content the BBC has to offer.

  • Queens of Music

    A celebration of powerhouse female leads who have shaped & defined the musical landscape.

  • Lives Well Lived

    Reflecting the extraordinary lives of remarkable individuals who we lost in the last year.

  • Jools Holland's Top Picks

    A curated selection of content that Jools Holland believes you'll enjoy.

  • Beyond the Music

    Whatever your taste, go beyond the music with these documentaries and live performances

  • When ... Came to Britain

    legendary artists leaving their mark on British soil.

  • Music Icons

    Rock and Pop icons from the 1960s to today

  • Legendary & Live

    Enjoy dazzling live performances from the main stage.

  • ABBA & Sounds of the 70s

    A look at the most memorable songs of ABBA and the music that surrounded them in the 70s.