Growl of approval as Camilla meets Blondie frontwoman
THE DUCHESS of Cornwall has confessed to Debbie Harry that her singing voice earned her the nickname “the growler” at school.
Camilla joked with the Blondie frontwoman when the pair met yesterday in the studio of BBC Radio 2 DJ Chris Evans after his breakfast show had finished.
The Duchess was visiting the studio in central London in support of the radio station’s 500 Words children’s writing competition, which is being spearheaded by Evans.
A few minutes after the breakfast programme ended, Camilla walked in and met Hollywood star Ray Winstone, a guest on the show, and Harry and the rest of the Blondie band members, who had been performing.
As the two women chatted, the Duchess told the singer: “I was always known as the growler at school.” Harry replied: “That can help in rock.”
Camilla, encouraged by the comment, added: “I’d probably be quite good growling away in the background.”
She then told the band she was a “huge admirer” of their work and was “so glad you’re all going strong”.
Blondie guitarist Chris Stein presented the Duchess with a CD of their new album, Pollinator.
Camilla also shared a laugh and joke with Winstone – famed for his hardman role in the film Scum and playing a gangster in
Sexy Beast – who had stayed behind to meet the royal visitor.
The Duchess was also introduced to some of Evans’ production staff, including newsreader Moira Stuart.
Later Camilla joined the 500 Words judging panel, as an honorary judge, whose members include authors Malorie Blackman and Francesca Simon, screenwriter Frank Cottrell-Boyce and author and actor Charlie Higson.