Blondie Drummer Clem Burke Dies at 70: Duran Duran, Nile Rodgers, The Romantics and More Pay Tribute
Clem Burke, longtime drummer for classic New Wave band Blondie, died on April 6, after a long battle with cancer, at the age of 70. Burke joined Blondie in 1975, played on every one of the band’s albums, and, with other band members, was inducted into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame in 2006. His tireless and propulsive drumming gave Blondie its danceable sound, and when the band went on hiatus in the ’80s and ’90s, his talents found a home in bands ranging from New Wave stars the Romantics to punk icons the Ramones.
“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,” his Blondie bandmates said in a statement on Instagram. “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.
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“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.”
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In the comments, disco legend and Chic frontman Nile Rodgers said, “RIP Rest in power brother Clem. My sincerest condolences go out to your fam and friends. It was an honor to play with you❤️🙏🏾”
On Instagram, Blondie guitarist Chris Stein posted a personal tribute, writing, “Thanks to you all. He loved doing what he did, he lived his dream.”
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Duran Duran‘s Nick Rhodes wrote, “I am so sad to hear that Clem has made his final exit. He was a real one of a kind and one of the greatest drummers in one of the greatest band’s of his generation.
A drum roll rarely sounded better, his beats were solid as a rock and he always played with great panache. A truly special person, bursting with positive energy.
My thoughts are with his family, friends, band and fans.”
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Former Spandau Ballet lead guitarist Gary Kemp paid tribute, too, writing, “Such sad news to hear of the passing of the legend, Clem Burke. This picture is from when we all played at the Lou Reed memorial show in Austin. Love to his family and friends.”
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Tim Burgess, lead singer of UK alternative band The Charlatans, wrote, “oh man Clem Burke was the epitome of a super cool drummer – so influential and a lovely guy.”
oh man
Clem Burke was the epitome of a super cool drummer – so influential and a lovely guy pic.twitter.com/6iXLnPfkXG
— Tim Burgess (@Tim_Burgess) April 7, 2025
New Wave band The Romantics, who Burke joined in the ’90s, wrote, “It is with a heavy heart that we have learned that Clem Burke, Blondie Drummer and Rock Innovator, has passed away. Clem Burke, the powerhouse drummer best known for his work with Blondie and The Romantics amongst others, has passed away after his challenging battle with cancer.
“Born Clement Bozewski, Burke was a founding member of Blondie, bringing explosive energy and precision to hits like “Heart of Glass” and “Call Me.” His drumming helped define the sound of the late ’70s punk and new wave scenes. In addition to his decades with Blondie, Clem also played with The Ramones, Iggy Pop, The Eurythmics, The Romantics, The Empty Hearts and others.
“During the 1980s and 1990s, when Blondie was on a hiatus, Burke played drums for the Romantics (for whom Burke was the regular drummer between 1990 and 2004), A 2006 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Burke was widely respected for both his artistry and passion. He leaves behind a legacy of innovation, influence, and rhythm that will resonate for generations.
R.I.P. Dr. Burke.”
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1974 (50 Years Ago)
January 2024
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