Hall of Fame musician appeared on albums by Pete Townshend, Iggy Pop, and Bob Dylan
Clem Burke, the longtime drummer for Blondie who played a key role in the New Wave movement and appeared on albums by Pete Townshend, Iggy Pop, and Bob Dylan, died at the age of 70.
“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,” the band wrote in a statement. “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.”
Burke joined the band in 1975 and appeared on all of the band’s albums, including the band’s 1976 self-titled debut and landmark albums Parallel Lines (1978) and Eat to the Beat (1979).
After the group disbanded in 1982 following The Hunter, Burke became an in-demand session drummer. “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,” the band wrote. “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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