Blondie's drummer Clem Burke has died, aged 70

7 April 2025, 16:45

Blondie drummer Clem Burke has died at the age of 70 after a "private battle with cancer."

The legendary band member's death was confirmed today (April 7) in a statement released by Blondie's social accounts.

"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," it read.

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"Clem was not just a drummer; he was the heartbeat of Blondie," the band's statement continued, adding that Clem's "talent, energy, and passion for music were unmatched".

The tribute post was signed by "Debbie, Chris, and the entire Blondie family", and finished with the group sending their "deepest condolences to Clem's family, friends and fans around the world.

"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," it finished.

Blondie - Heart Of Glass

Clem Burke was born Clement Anthony Bozewski in New Jersey in November 1954.

He began drumming at a young age and played at various venues including New York's Carnegie Hall and the club CBGB while he was still just a teenager.

He joined Blondie in 1975 alongside co-founders Debbie Harry and Chris Stein, and remained a part of the group throughout the rest of his career.

He played the drums for all of the band's albums, from their self-titled debut in 1976 to their most recent LP, 2017's Pollinator.

In 2006, Clem was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame alongside his Blondie bandmates.