Blondie’s drummer Clem Burke, known as the ‘heartbeat’, passes away at 70
Clem Burke, the legendary drummer known for his rhythmic talents that powered Blondie to immense success over several eras, has passed away at the age of 70. Debbie Harry and Chris Stein, founding members of the iconic new wave group, shared the heartbreaking news of Burke’s death on Instagram, revealing that he had succumbed to cancer after a private battle.
Describing Burke as much more than just a drummer, Harry and Stein emphasized his pivotal role as the heartbeat of Blondie. They lauded his unparalleled talent, unwavering energy, and profound love for music, highlighting his invaluable contributions to the band’s distinctive sound and enduring success. The duo also praised Burke’s vibrant spirit, contagious enthusiasm, and unwavering work ethic, acknowledging the profound impact he had on everyone fortunate enough to cross paths with him.
A key member of Blondie, Burke was one of only three individuals, alongside Harry and Stein, who played on all 11 of the band’s studio albums. Together, they spearheaded the new wave movement in America during the 1970s and 1980s, achieving remarkable chart-topping success with six No. 1 hits in the UK and four in the US, including iconic tracks like Heart of Glass and The Tide Is High.
In addition to his tenure with Blondie, Burke lent his talents to various supergroups such as the International Swingers, Slinky Vagabond, and Magic Christian. He also collaborated with a diverse array of artists ranging from Ramones to Bob Dylan and Nancy Sinatra, showcasing his versatility and musical prowess.
Raised in Bayonne, New Jersey, Burke honed his craft by playing in local cover bands and drum corps before venturing to New York City. His audition for Blondie in 1975 marked the beginning of a remarkable journey with the band, where he stepped in to replace the original drummer, Billy O’Connor. Reflecting on his audition process, Burke shared his determination to find a charismatic and creative front person akin to musical icons like David Bowie, Jim Morrison, or Mick Jagger.
Blondie’s initial success began overseas before catapulting them to global stardom in 1979 with the release of Heart of Glass. Despite the band’s experimentation with drum machines, Burke remained unfazed, showcasing his adaptability and unwavering commitment to their evolving sound. Hits like Call Me, Atomic, and The Tide Is High solidified Blondie’s status as trendsetters in the music industry, commanding music charts and audiences worldwide.
Following Blondie’s temporary split in 1982, Burke pursued various collaborations and projects, working with renowned musicians like Bob Dylan, Pete Townshend, and Joan Jett. His dynamic drumming style and undeniable New York City “cool” set a standard for live performances that resonated for decades.
Burke’s legacy as a music icon and cherished friend was commemorated by peers and collaborators such as Nancy Sinatra and Gerald Casale of Devo, who paid tribute to his unparalleled style and enduring impact on the music scene. As fans and fellow musicians mourn the loss of a true legend, Burke’s profound influence on music and his enduring spirit continue to resonate across generations.