Throughout her career, Debbie has drawn inspiration from a variety of musical sources, with a keen interest in the evolution of hip-hop and rap. Harry’s own musical journey can be traced back to the diverse artists she listened to during her formative years, who influenced her sound and helped her become the versatile musician she is today.
It’s no secret that Harry has always been an admirer of the hip-hop and rap genres, and this admiration has been evident in some of her interviews and statements over the years. But which rappers did Debbie Harry admire the most? To find the answer, we can look back to a Q&A session with Rolling Stone back in 2004.
During the interview, Harry was asked about the role she thought ‘Rapture,’ Blondie’s groundbreaking track, played in the evolution of hip-hop and rap. She humbly acknowledged that while the song made rap more viable for mainstream audiences and was the first to have its own original music, she didn’t consider herself a major influence in the genre.
Instead, she expressed her admiration for some of the great rappers who have pushed the boundaries of the genre, including Missy Elliott, Lil’ Kim, Ludacris, and 50 Cent. Harry praised their exceptional rhythmic abilities and their innovative approach to phrasing, which she found truly inspiring.
When asked about the impact of ‘Rapture’ in the evolution of hip-hop and rap, Harry replied:
“Creatively it did one thing in particular: It was the first rap song to have its own original music. Commercially it made rap viable for the mainstream charts. I don’t think it was a tremendous influence. I am nowhere close to being a rapper. I’m completely in awe of great rappers.”
Regarding who they were, the singer said:
“Missy Elliott and Lil’ Kim, Ludacris, and 50 Cent. All of the subtle, rhythmic things they do with their phrasing is really outrageous.”
Thus, Debbie Harry’s admiration for rappers like Missy Elliott, Lil’ Kim, Ludacris, and 50 Cent highlights her appreciation for the diverse range of talents within the hip-hop genre. These artists have not only inspired her own creative journey but have also played a significant role in shaping the music landscape as a whole. By celebrating their achievements and drawing inspiration from their unique styles, Harry and Blondie continue to evolve as artists, pushing the boundaries of music and paving the way for future generations to come.
