Blondie drummer Clem Burke has died at the age of 70. The cause of death was cancer, and he passed away on Sunday. Burke’s energetic and versatile drumming played a crucial role in the band’s success, particularly with songs like “Call Me” and “The Tide Is High.” He was known for his work ethic and ability to adapt to different genres, as evident in Blondie’s post-punk, disco, and rock sound.
Born on November 24, 1954, in Bayonne, New Jersey, Burke learned to drum from his father and began performing in school bands. He met Debbie Harry and Chris Stein in 1974 and joined their band, which would later become Blondie. Burke’s style was influenced by classic rock-star drummers like Ringo Starr and John Bonham.
Throughout his career, Burke played on all 11 of Blondie’s studio albums, working with artists such as David Bowie, Eurythmics, Bob Dylan, and Pete Townshend. He also formed or joined various bands, including Chequered Past, the International Swingers, and the Plimsouls.
Burke was known for his charisma on stage and his ability to blend different styles. In a 2004 interview with The Sarasota Herald-Tribune, he stated that he always admired bands that didn’t stick to one particular style. He also mentioned that meeting Debbie Harry was like finding his Mick Jagger, indicating the strong bond they shared.
Burke’s passing marks the end of an era for Blondie, who is best remembered for its charismatic lead singer, Debbie Harry. The band’s music and legacy will continue to be celebrated by fans around the world.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/07/arts/music/clem-burke-dead.html