Music fans are mourning the loss of an iconic drummer from one of New York City’s favorite rock bands.
Clem Burke, the drummer for Blondie, died at the age of 70 after a battle with cancer. The band’s Instagram page announced the sad news on April 7, writing in the caption, “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.”
Describing him as the “heartbeat of Blondie,” his bandmates praised him for “his talent, energy, and passion for music.” They continued, “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.”
Christopher Stein, Rob Roth, Debbie Harry and Clem Burke attend Storytellers: Blondie during the 2021 Tribeca Festival at Spring Studios on June 15, 2021 in New York City.
Burke’s work extended beyond Deborah Harry and Blondie, he also “collaborated with numerous iconic artists, including Eurythmics, Ramones, Bob Dylan, Bob Geldof, Iggy Pop, Joan Jett, Nancy Sinatra, 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.”
The post also shared their “deepest condolences” to Burke’s family and friends who were impacted by his death.
“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,” the post summed up and was signed by “Debbie, Chris, and the entire Blondie family.”
Blondie had major hits like “One Way Or Another” in 1978 and “Call Me” in 1980 during their first stint together as a band from 1974-1982. They reunited in 1997 with their last album, Pollinator, released in 2017.
Burke was a “self-proclaimed ‘Rock & Roll survivalist,'” per the Instagram post and his legacy will live on through Blondie’s legendary music.
