Clem Burke, one of the all-time great rock & roll drummers, passed away at 70 due to cancer. As a founding member of Blondie, his energetic beats played a crucial role in shaping the band’s sound and catapulting them to global success.
Burke’s unique style combined elements of chaos and forward motion, setting him apart from other drummers. A key factor in Blondie’s early years was Burke’s charismatic presence, which drew fans like Debbie Harry and Chris Stein together as a band. After auditioning 50 applicants, the trio found the perfect drummer in Burke, who possessed a show-biz element that made him an instant star.
Throughout his career, Burke drummed with numerous legendary artists, including Iggy Pop, Joan Jett, Bob Dylan, and the Eurythmics. He was known for his versatility, wit, and irrepressible rock & roll spirit. Burke even formed several bands in his own right, including the Chequered Past and the International Swingers.
With a distinctive style that blended flash and groove, Burke left an indelible mark on the music world. As one of the most beloved drummers of all time, he will be deeply missed by fans worldwide.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/clem-burke-beat-helped-blondie-001606920.html