Blondie’s iconic drummer, Clem Burke, passes away at 70
Blondie’s Clem Burke, the heart and soul of the legendary band, passed away at 70 after a private battle with cancer.
Clem Burke, the renowned drummer of the iconic new wave band Blondie, has passed away at the age of 70 after a private battle with cancer. Known for his immense talent, energy, and passion, Burke was a pivotal figure in Blondie’s rise to fame and its enduring success.
His contributions to the band were far beyond his drumming, helping to keep the group together during challenging times. Burke’s legacy as the “heartbeat” of Blondie is now etched in rock history, having influenced countless artists and fans across generations.
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Blondie remembers Clem Burke
The news of Burke's death was announced by the band's social media. “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”.
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The statement referred to him as the "heartbeat of the band" and praised him as a source of inspiration on and off-stage. They ended the statement asking for privacy during this difficult time.
Clem Burke’s early career
Born in New Jersey in 1954, Clem Burke's passion for drumming has always been part of his life. One of his first memories was playing his father’s drum kit while listening to Four Seasons's music.
He later performed with his band "The Total Environment" at Carnegie Hall at 14, taking part in a battle of the bands contest.
Clem Burke: the reason why Blondie stayed together
Burke was recruited by Debbie Harry and Chris Stein, Blondie's co-founders, shortly after they formed the band in 1975. The new wave band credited him for keeping the band together after Stein and Harry were considering disbanding after the original bassist, Fred Smith, left the band.
Blondie's Clem Burke, Debbie Harry and Chris Stein in 2010. Photo: The Independent
Burke recruited his friend, Gary Valentine, to join the band as the new bassist; and that way he convinced Harry and Stein to keep going. Clem Burke stayed with them for his entire career.