Updated October 27, 2025: Blondie’s reissue campaign includes exclusive vinyl bundles and behind-the-scenes footage dropping Halloween week.
Clem Burke named it. Debbie Harry sealed it. No Exit wasn’t just an album—it was a declaration.
In this candid sit-down, Blondie unpacks the chaos, creativity, and controversy behind their 1999 comeback record, with all the cheek and charm you’d expect.
From the surreal origins of “Maria” to the bullet-dodging paranoia of its music video shoot, the band dives deep into memory lane. Debbie recalls the Catholic school archetype that inspired the lyrics—“every perfect Catholic school girl who wore her skirt too short and her blouse too tight”—while Rob Roth confesses the surveillance-themed album artwork was inspired by the bathroom antics at NYC’s underground club Jackie 60s.
But one of the most dramatic turns came during the making of the “Maria” video. Originally directed by Roman Coppola—son of legendary filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola and a high-profile creative known for his work with Wes Anderson and The Strokes—the shoot featured super slow-motion photography and a controversial sniper scene. Debbie recounts how Coppola, frustrated by creative disagreements and backlash over the violent imagery, ultimately pulled his name from the project.
Debbie admits she feared for her life during the “Maria” video shoot bullet catch setup—“I’m going to die,” she says, recalling the paranoia that haunted the shoot. That original bullet scene was later edited out.
But amid the friction, there’s fondness. The band’s reunion in Los Angeles felt like magic—“all of a sudden, there it was.” And the deluxe reissue? It’s in full swing and finally getting the celebration it deserves. The track clips sound restored, vibrant, and alive. We cannot wait.
“Some people love vinyl for the sound. But for me, it’s the art,” Roth reflects, praising the packaging and photography. Debbie even jokes that Rob Roth should be given an Academy Award for the visuals.
With heartfelt dedications, near-death tour bus moments, and a wink at the next album title (no spoilers yet), this interrogation tape is Blondie at their most unfiltered—and unforgettable.
Press play on Blondie 2025 on 1999. The No Exit deluxe reissue is officially set to release on Halloween, October 31, 2025, via BMG. It marks the first time the album will be available on vinyl, with formats including:
- 2CD set featuring the original album and bonus content
- Crystal clear 2LP vinyl and black 2LP vinyl editions
- Remixes and Japan-only bonus track “Hot Shot”
- New sleeve notes and restored audio that bring the album’s energy back to life
Originally released on February 15, 1999, No Exit marked Blondie’s first studio album in 17 years. “Maria” soared to No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart, and the album reached No. 3 on the UK Albums Chart, earning Gold certification.
Blondie’s No Exit deluxe reissue is officially set to release on Halloween, October 31, 2025
Preorders are now live via Blondie’s official site and BMG’s preorder portal. Blondie No Exit reissue
Did “Maria” hit different for you back in ’99—or are you just here for the vinyl visuals? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let’s rewind together.
