Clem Burke, longtime drummer of Blondie, has died at the age of 70.
According to a statement from the band released on Monday, Burke passed away “following a private battle with cancer.”
“Clem was not just a drummer; he was the heartbeat of Blondie,” the band added. “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 joined Blondie in 1975, shortly after the band’s formation, and appeared on every one of their albums alongside founding members Debbie Harry and Chris Stein. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Blondie in 2006.
Following Blondie’s initial disbandment in the early 1980s, Burke emerged as a go-to session drummer for acts like The Eurythmics, Iggy Pop, Joan Jett, and Pete Townshend, and played in bands like The Romantics and Dramarama. He also briefly stood in as The Ramones’ drummer for a pair of concerts in 1987 following the departure of Richie Ramone. “His influence and contributions have spanned decades and genres, leaving an indelible mark on every project he was a part of,” Blondie wrote in their statement.
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Blondie reunited in 1997 with Burke back behind the kit and have remained an active touring entity as recently as 2024.
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