Clem Burke, famed drummer for Blondie, died on Sunday, April 6. He was 70 years old.
The official Blondie account announced the news of Burke’s death on Monday writing, “It is with profound sadness that we relay news of the passing of our beloved friend and bandmate Clem Burke following a private battle with cancer.
Clem was not just a drummer; he was the heartbeat of Blondie. His talent, energy, and passion for music were unmatched, and his contributions to our sound and success are immeasurable. Beyond his musicianship, Clem was a source of inspiration both on and off the stage. His vibrant spirit, infectious enthusiasm and rock solid work ethic touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Burke’s influence “extended far beyond Blondie,” their official statement read, but high-energy drumming gave Blondie’s songs (like “Dreaming” and “Atomic”) power and polish.
The band’s statement continued: “A self proclaimed ‘Rock & Roll survivalist’, he played and collaborated with numerous iconic artists, including Eurythmics, Ramones, Bob Dylan, Bob Geldof, Iggy Pop, Joan Jett, Nancy Sinatra, Chequered Past, The Fleshtones, The Romantics, Dramarama, The Adult Net, The Split Squad, The International Swingers, L.A.M.F., Empty Hearts, Slinky Vagabond, and even the Go-Go’s. His influence and contributions have spanned decades and genres, leaving an indelible mark on every project he was a part of.
We extend our deepest condolences to Clem’s family, friends, and fans around the world. His legacy will live on through the tremendous amount of music he created and the countless lives he touched. As we navigate this profound loss, we ask for privacy during this difficult time. Godspeed, Dr. Burke.”
The statement was signed “Debbie, Chris, and the entire Blondie family.”
The specific details of Burke’s cancer were not revealed.
Born on Nov. 24, 1954 in Bayonne, New Jersey, Burke, along with singer-songwriter front-woman Debbie Harry and guitarist and co-writer Chris Stein, was part of the pop icon group Blondie. Burke’s “powerhouse playing has always distinguished Blondie’s sound,” the group wrote on their website. Burke joined the group in 1975, appearing on their 1976 self-titled debut album, Parallel Lines (1978) and Eat to the Beat (1979), with the band topping the charts in the late 1970s.
Burke was inducted with his Blondie bandmates into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in March 2006.
More to come.