Blondie had discovered the song via a cassette tape compilation which Jeffrey Lee Pierce had given the band.

Beginning with a phone sound-effect courtesy of producer Mike Chapman, Blondie's version of the song was released on the band's breakthrough third album, Parallel Lines.

Long after the song's eventual commercial success, Lee reflected "Even people who hated me – and there were plenty – had to admit it was great.

'Lee had been financially struggling at the time; he recalled the moment the band called him to ask permission to cover the song.

Blondie's version of the song begins with a sound effect of a telephone system ringing tone.

The idea was proposed by producer Mike Chapman; he recalled "The Blondies all thought that was stupid and too gimmicky, but I said, 'C'mon, guys!

"[14] Cash Box said that it has a "fast clipping beat, varied guitar work and good lead vocals by Deborah Harry.

[33] In 2003, renowned alternative rock music band Something For Kate covered the song at a gig at The Prince Bandroom, disguised as "George Kaplan & The Editors".

[34] In 2005, English indie punk-rock band Johnny Panic released a version of the song as a B-side to their single 'Minority of One'.