Blondie’s Drummer Clem Burke Has Passed Away At 70

Clem Burke, the powerhouse drummer who kept time for Blondie since their 1976 debut, has passed away at 70. The band shared the sad news with fans, revealing that Burke died “following a private battle with cancer.” His rhythm and spirit were deeply woven into the DNA of Blondie, and his legacy reaches far beyond the iconic band.

The Heartbeat of Blondie

“Clem was not just a drummer; he was the heartbeat of Blondie,” the band wrote in an emotional statement. “His talent, energy, and passion for music were unmatched, and his contributions to our sound and success are immeasurable.” They remembered him as more than just a bandmate, calling him “a source of inspiration both on and off the stage.”

Known for his vibrant energy and solid work ethic, Burke was a beloved figure in the music world. “His vibrant spirit, infectious enthusiasm and rock solid work ethic touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him,” Blondie added.

From Bayonne to the Big Time

Born on November 24, 1954, in Bayonne, New Jersey, Burke began playing in local bands during the late ’60s and early ’70s. His big break came in 1975 when he joined Blondie, which had just been formed by Debbie Harry and Chris Stein. He played on every Blondie album—from their self-titled debut in 1976 to their smash hit Parallel Lines in 1978 and their most recent record, Pollinator, in 2017.

When Blondie broke up in 1982 after The Hunter, Burke kept playing. The band reunited in 1999 with No Exit, and Burke picked up his sticks once again.

Beyond Blondie: A Drummer for the Greats

A true “Rock & Roll survivalist,” as he proudly called himself, Burke’s drumming talents were in constant demand. He played with an impressive lineup of artists including Bob Dylan, Eurythmics, Joan Jett, Iggy Pop, Pete Townshend, Ramones (as Elvis Ramone), Bob Geldof, Wanda Jackson, and Nancy Sinatra. He was also a member of several bands, including the Romantics, Chequered Past, The International Swingers, and The Empty Hearts.

Burke’s versatility and steady hand made him one of the most respected drummers in the industry. In 2006, he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with the other original members of Blondie.

A Lasting Legacy

“We extend our deepest condolences to Clem’s family, friends, and fans around the world,” Blondie’s statement read. “His legacy will live on through the tremendous amount of music he created and the countless lives he touched.” They closed the message with a heartfelt goodbye: “Godspeed, Dr. Burke.”

From pounding out Blondie’s biggest hits to collaborating with legends, Clem Burke left his mark on decades of music. His rhythm may have stopped, but his beat will live on forever.