Blondie drummer Clem Burke dies aged 70

It has been announced that Blondie drummer, Clem Burke, has died aged 70.

A statement on the Official Blondie Facebook account said: “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.

“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. 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.

“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. As we navigate this profound loss, we ask for privacy during this difficult time. Godspeed, Dr. Burke.

“Debbie, Chris, and the entire Blondie family.”

‘Vibrant Spirit’

Recruited by Debbie Harry and Chris Stein in early 1975, the drummer was fundamental to the band’s  development and sound. He told Classic Pop’s John Earls: “If you’re in a band, you need a vision to believe in. As a drummer, I’d been looking for a David Bowie or a Jim Morrison as the frontperson in my band. When I met Debbie, I knew she was my Bowie, my Morrison. She was super-talented, obviously glamorous. I had no problem in seeing the magic that could be there in Blondie.”

As a member of Blondie, Clem appeared on six No.1 singles – Heart Of Glass (1979), Sunday Girl (1979), Atomic (1980), Call Me (1980), The Tide Is High (1980) and 1999’s Maria – as well as the chart-topping albums Parallel Lines and Eat To The Beat.

Classic Pop extends its condolences to his family, friends, and fans.

Read the full Blondie interview here