8th April 2025 – (New Jersey) Clem Burke, the celebrated drummer whose dynamic rhythms were integral to the success of the iconic rock band Blondie, has passed away at the age of 70 after a battle with cancer, the band announced on its website on 7th April. No further details regarding his condition were provided.

“Clem was not just a drummer; he was the heartbeat of Blondie,” the band stated. “His talent, energy, and passion for music were unmatched, and his contributions to our sound and success are immeasurable.”

Burke began his musical journey at the age of 14 in his school orchestra, only to be dismissed for playing too loudly. His career took off in the 1970s when he responded to an advertisement in the Village Voice seeking a “freak energy” drummer, leading to his collaboration with lead singer Debbie Harry and the rest of the Blondie lineup.

The band released its debut album in 1976 and quickly gained prominence, touring with legends such as Iggy Pop and David Bowie. Blondie emerged as one of the most commercially successful acts from the vibrant New York rock scene, which also birthed Talking Heads and the Ramones. In 2006, Burke and the original members were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame after selling over 42 million records.

Throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s, Blondie achieved eight Top 40 hits, including four number ones: “Heart of Glass,” “Call Me,” “The Tide Is High,” and “Rapture,” the latter being notable as the first number one hit to incorporate rap. Burke’s powerful drumming is particularly remembered for its impact on the opening of “Dreaming” in 1979.

In 2022, the band released the box set Blondie: Against The Odds, 1974-1982, containing 124 tracks, including 36 previously unreleased recordings and demos, showcasing their extensive archives. Reflecting on this treasure trove of material, Burke remarked, “We never would have thought that we would still be here today. Looking back at our archives, it’s pretty amazing.”

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame commemorated Burke on social media, praising him as “a versatile and distinctive drummer who played exactly what each song required – and, when called for, let loose with blistering punk rock energy.”