Debbie Ryan and Chris Stein remember their bandmate, Clen Burke, in a heartfelt statement after the drummer passed away at the age of 70 following a private battle with cancer.
- April 8, 2025
AceShowbiz - Clem Burke,the drummer for Blondie and a cornerstone of the punk/new wave movement, passed away at 70 after a private battle with cancer. Blondie co-founders Debbie Harry and Chris Stein broke the sad news in a statement.
They described their late bandmate as "not just a drummer; he was the heartbeat of Blondie." They continued, "We extend our deepest condolences to Clem's family, friends, and fans around the world. … As we navigate this profound loss, we ask for privacy during this difficult time."
Born Clement Anthony Bozewski on November 24, 1954, in Bayonne, New Jersey, Burke developed passion for drumming since he was young. His first memory involved playing his father's drum kit to the Four Seasons, and he accumulated experience in marching bands and cover groups before moving to New York.
By 1975, he had joined Blondie and became integral to their transformation from underdogs in the New York punk scene to global icons. Songs like "Heart of Glass" and "Rapture" showcased his ability to blend punk, reggae, disco, and hip-hop grooves seamlessly.
Burke wasn't just bound to Blondie either. He also worked with numerous musical legends, including Bob Dylan, Iggy Pop, the Ramones, and Eurythmics. A self-proclaimed "Rock & Roll survivalist," Burke left an indelible mark on every project he touched.
Additionally, Burke co-founded bands like the International Swingers and Split Squad while maintaining collaborations with rock icons. In the 1980s, he joined Iggy Pop's band and played with the Ramones as "Elvis Ramone."
Burke's influence went beyond music. In 2008, he started the Clem Burke Drumming Project, studying the physical and psychological effects of drumming and proving that drummers can exert as much energy as athletes. This research earned him an honorary doctorate from the University of Gloucestershire in 2011.
Even as he battled illness, Burke continued performing. His final show with Blondie was in June 2023 in Belfast. With his passing, the music world mourns his loss but celebrates his enduring legacy. Clem Burke's contributions to music will be remembered and cherished by generations to come.
