‘Profound loss’: Blondie drummer Clem Burke dead at 70
Iconic rock band Blondie one of its longest serving bandmates with the rest of band paying tribute after the devastating loss.
Entertainment
Don't miss out on the headlines from Entertainment. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Clem Burke, the drummer for Blondie, has died at 70 after privately battling cancer.
The iconic New York City rock band, which singer Debbie Harry and guitarist Chris Stein originally founded in 1974, announced Burke’s death on social media on Monday.
“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,” Harry, 79, and Stein, 75, said in a statement on the official Blondie Instagram page.
“Clem was not just a drummer. He was the heartbeat of Blondie,” they continued.
“His talent, energy, and passion for music were unmatched, and his contributions to our sound and success are immeasurable.”
They called Burke “a source of inspiration” both on and off stage, beyond his music.
“His vibrant spirit, infectious enthusiasm and rock solid work ethic touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”
The rock band — known for hits like Call Me and One Way Or Another — initially lasted from 1974 to 1982, but they reunited in 1997.
Their most recent album was 2017’s Pollinator, which Burke played the drums on.
In between Blondie stints, Burke briefly played the drums for Ramones in 1987. He also played with music legends such as David Bowie and Bob Dylan.
Burke was married to his wife, Ellen Burke, for over 20 years since 2003. The couple didn’t have children.
The statement didn’t specify what type of cancer Burke had, but it went on to praise his influence 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,” they said.
Harry and Stein added, “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,” the statement concluded.
“As we navigate this profound loss, we ask for privacy during this difficult time. Godspeed, Dr. Burke.”
This story first appeared in the New York Post and was republished with permission.
Originally published as ‘Profound loss’: Blondie drummer Clem Burke dead at 70
Australian music legend suffers stroke
Aussie music legend Brian Cadd is currently recovering in hospital after collapsing at his home on the Gold Coast.
Insane MAFS truths finally revealed
Serious investigations have exploded around Channel 9 again. As stars speak out, who’s telling the truth — and what’s the price that makes it all worth it?