About the song
“Heart of Glass” is a seminal track by the American new wave band Blondie, showcasing the band’s innovative fusion of disco and rock. Released as the third single from their third studio album, *Parallel Lines* (1978), “Heart of Glass” was a groundbreaking piece that emerged from the vibrant intersection of musical genres during the late 1970s. The song, penned by Debbie Harry and Chris Stein, represents a pivotal moment in Blondie’s career and the wider music landscape, blending a catchy disco beat with new wave sensibilities.
Initially crafted in 1974–75 under the working title “Once I Had a Love,” the song underwent several transformations before its final incarnation. Originally a slower, funk-inspired track, “Heart of Glass” evolved into a more pop-oriented tune as it was re-recorded and remixed under the influence of producer Mike Chapman. This evolution included a pronounced disco influence, a nod to the era’s burgeoning dance music scene. The final version, characterized by its distinctive use of the Roland CR-78 drum machine and electronic synthesizers, exemplified Blondie’s ability to blend genres and push musical boundaries.
Upon its release in January 1979, “Heart of Glass” soared to the top of the charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. The song’s success was marked by its high rankings on numerous lists, including Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, where it has been consistently featured over the decades. Its innovative sound earned it a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2015, highlighting its lasting impact on music.
Despite its acclaim, “Heart of Glass” was met with controversy within the music industry. Some critics accused Blondie of “selling out” for embracing disco, a genre that was often at odds with the punk and new wave movements of the time. Nevertheless, the song’s popularity solidified Blondie’s position as a leading force in the music world, and it remains a quintessential example of the band’s genre-blending approach.
The music video for “Heart of Glass,” directed by Stanley Dorfman, further cemented the song’s iconic status. Featuring Debbie Harry in a striking silver dress designed by Stephen Sprouse, the video captured the essence of the song’s blend of disco and new wave, contributing to its lasting appeal.
In conclusion, “Heart of Glass” is not just a song but a milestone in musical history. Its blend of disco and new wave elements, combined with its commercial success and critical acclaim, exemplifies Blondie’s pioneering spirit and enduring influence on popular music.
Video
Lyrics
Once I had a love and it was a gas
Soon turned out had a heart of glass
Seemed like the real thing, only to find
Mucho mistrust, love’s gone behind
Once I had a love and it was divine
Soon found out I was losing my mind
It seemed like the real thing, but I was so blind
Mucho mistrust, love’s gone behind
In between
What I find is pleasing and I’m feeling fine
Love is so confusing there’s no peace of mind
If I fear I’m losing you. it’s just no good
You teasing like you do
Once I had a love and it was a gas
Soon turned out had a heart of glass
Seemed like the real thing, only to find
Mucho mistrust, love’s gone behind
Lost inside
Adorable illusion and I cannot hide
I’m the one you’re using, please don’t push me aside
We coulda made it cruising, yeah
La, da, da, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la
La, da, da, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la
La, da, da, la, la, la, la, la, la, la
Yeah, riding high on love’s true bluish light
Ooh, oh, ooh, oh
Ooh, oh, ooh, oh
Once I had a love and it was a gas
Soon turned out had a heart of glass
Seemed like the real thing only to find
Mucho mistrust, love’s gone behind
In between
What I find is pleasing and I’m feeling fine
Love is so confusing there’s no peace of mind
If I fear I’m losing you it’s just no good
You teasing like you do
La, da, da, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la
La, da, da, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la
La, da, da, la, la, la, la, la, la, la
La, da, da, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la
La, da, da, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la
La, da, da, la, la, la, la, la, la, la