The story of Fred Smith, a bassist who left one band for another, is a tale of musical choices and their consequences. But was it a mistake?
Fred Smith, the bassist who left Blondie to join Television, passed away at 77. He made a bold move, leaving a band on the brink of stardom for a group that stood out from the punk scene with their virtuosic style. But here's the twist: Blondie went on to achieve massive success, while Television's fame was short-lived.
Smith had no regrets. He saw Blondie as a sinking ship and Television as his dream band. Born Fredrick Edward Lefkowitz in Manhattan, he grew up in Queens with a musical family. He taught himself guitar and bass, and his early career began with the future Ramones in a garage band. In 1974, he joined forces with Chris Stein and Debby Harry, forming Blondie and the Banzai Babes, later shortened to Blondie.
Meanwhile, Television was formed by Tom Verlaine and Richard Hell, who transformed a Manhattan club, CBGB, into a punk-rock hub. Smith was a fan, and when Blondie showed no signs of greatness, he jumped ship. This decision caused a stir, with Debby Harry blaming Patti Smith for influencing Fred's choice. And this is where it gets controversial—was it a mistake?
Television's debut album, Marquee Moon, was a unique masterpiece, blending jazz and Indian music with extended instrumental sections. Critics adored it, especially the 10-minute title track. But internal conflicts, including Verlaine's difficult personality and Lloyd's drug issues, led to the band's demise.
In a surprising turn, Blondie soared to pop stardom, leaving Debby Harry to later claim that Smith had made a mistake. Yet, early Blondie was far from perfect. Television, on the other hand, had a brief but impactful reign, headlining over Blondie in the UK. Tony Parsons of NME described the difference: 'Blondie was fun, but Television was a spiritual experience.'
Smith's life after Television included playing with a bluegrass band and starting a winery with his wife. He passed away on February 5, 2026, leaving behind a musical legacy and a controversial decision that still sparks debate. Was he right to follow his heart, or did he miss out on Blondie's success? Share your thoughts below!
