Tuesday, February 4, 2014 3:21am ET by  
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Blondie to be given NME Godlike Genius award

Blondie will be this year's recipients of NME's coveted Godlike Genius award.

The veteran group will pick up the honour in person at the magazine's awards bash at London's Brixton O2 Academy on February 26.

They will also perform on the night as they prepare to celebrate their 40th anniversary.

The American band commented: "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?"

NME editor Mike Williams meanwhile commented: "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."

Blondie meanwhile will release the two-disc effort 'Blondie 4(0) Ever' in May, which will include the new album 'Ghosts of Download' as well as a greatest hits compilation.

 

 

 

 

 

Watch Blondie in action below: