Clem Burke, drummer with Blondie, has passed away at the age of 70, the band have said in a statement. He was with Blondie from 1975, shortly after the band had formed, and remained with them throughout their entire career, appearing on all of their albums, alongside the two founding members Debbie Harry and Chris Stein.
“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,” said the statement shared from Blondie’s social media accounts.
It continued, “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.”
“His vibrant spirit, infectious enthusiasm and rock solid work ethic touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Clem’s influence extended far beyond Blondie.”
“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, 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.”
I first saw Clem Burke in May 1977 at the old Glasgow Apollo when Blondie opened for Television. The previous night the Ramones and Talking Heads had played just down the road at Strathclyde University in an iconic weekend for the city when the very best of New York’s punk/new wave scene had arrived in Glasgow.
I did see him twice more with Blondie at Latitude and Glastonbury festivals in 2008 and 2014 respectively, but it was his performance as the drummer with Nancy Sinatra at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall in 2005 that perhaps fully emphasised his power, versatility, and inspirational range.
Main photo credit: Dave J Hogan/Getty Images
