Nigel Harrison, born on April 24, 1951, is a notable English bassist recognized for his significant contributions to the music scene, particularly as a member of the iconic American rock band Blondie during the 1970s and 1980s.
Raised in Princes Risborough, Harrison began his musical journey with the local band Farm before joining Silverhead, led by Michael Des Barres, from 1972 to 1974. A pivotal moment in his early career occurred in August 1974 when he played bass for Iggy Pop's debut solo performance, "Murder of a Virgin." Additionally, he provided uncredited bass work on The Runaways’ first album after their bassist was unable to perform.
In 1977, Harrison joined Blondie as they were transitioning from their second album, Plastic Letters. His tenure with the band lasted until their split following the Tracks Across America Tour in 1982. During this period, he co-wrote several hit singles, including "One Way or Another," "Union City Blue," and "War Child," showcasing his songwriting talents alongside Debbie Harry.
After Blondie, he was part of Chequered Past from 1982 to 1984, collaborating with former bandmates and releasing a self-titled album. Harrison also worked as a music supervisor for the 1988 film Tapeheads and appeared in the 1991 movie Young Soul Rebels.
Although he was invited to rejoin Blondie for their 1999 album No Exit, he was ultimately excluded, leading to a lawsuit that did not succeed. Later, he served as an A&R executive at Interscope and Capitol Records, and played with The Grabs, releasing their album Sex, Fashion And Money in 2005. In 2006, Harrison witnessed Blondie’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He continues to perform with various musical acts, including The Rua, contributing to their 2015 album, The Essence.
Raised in Princes Risborough, Harrison began his musical journey with the local band Farm before joining Silverhead, led by Michael Des Barres, from 1972 to 1974. A pivotal moment in his early career occurred in August 1974 when he played bass for Iggy Pop's debut solo performance, "Murder of a Virgin." Additionally, he provided uncredited bass work on The Runaways’ first album after their bassist was unable to perform.
In 1977, Harrison joined Blondie as they were transitioning from their second album, Plastic Letters. His tenure with the band lasted until their split following the Tracks Across America Tour in 1982. During this period, he co-wrote several hit singles, including "One Way or Another," "Union City Blue," and "War Child," showcasing his songwriting talents alongside Debbie Harry.
After Blondie, he was part of Chequered Past from 1982 to 1984, collaborating with former bandmates and releasing a self-titled album. Harrison also worked as a music supervisor for the 1988 film Tapeheads and appeared in the 1991 movie Young Soul Rebels.
Although he was invited to rejoin Blondie for their 1999 album No Exit, he was ultimately excluded, leading to a lawsuit that did not succeed. Later, he served as an A&R executive at Interscope and Capitol Records, and played with The Grabs, releasing their album Sex, Fashion And Money in 2005. In 2006, Harrison witnessed Blondie’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He continues to perform with various musical acts, including The Rua, contributing to their 2015 album, The Essence.
