Clem Burke, drummer of Blondie and Ramones, Dead at 70

The news was announced in the following statement released on Blondie's Facebook page:

"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.

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.

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.

We extend our 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.

Debbie, Chris, and the entire Blondie family".

Burke passed away on Monday April 7, 2025 after a brief battle with cancer.

Recruited by Debbie Harry and Chris Stein when Blondie was first forming in 1974, Burke joined Blondie in early 1975.

He was a key figure in keeping the group together after Stein and Harry considered disbanding, following the departure of original bassist Fred Smith to Television; Burke recruited his friend Gary Valentine to play bass. Burke's style of playing was influenced by Hal Blaine, Keith Moon, Ringo Starr, and Earl Palmer.

After Blondie disbanded in 1982, Burke went on to play drums for the Romantics (for whom Burke was the regular drummer between 1990 and 2004), Pete Townshend, Bob Dylan, Eurythmics, Dramarama, the Fleshtones, Iggy Pop, Joan Jett, and the Ramones. He went on to record with the line-up of Chequered Past in 1983 with Sex Pistols guitarist Steve Jones, former Blondie bandmate Nigel Harrison, bass guitarist and vocalist Tony Sales, and singer/actor Michael Des Barres.

The band re-formed in 1997, and found renewed success with the release of their album No Exit. Their single "Maria" became their sixth number one single in the UK exactly 20 years after their first UK number one single, "Heart of Glass".

The group continued touring and performing throughout the world during the following years, and released four mor albums, their latest release was Pollinated in 2017.

In 2006, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Blondie.

In July 2011, Burke received an honorary doctorate from the University of Gloucestershire, as a result of the drumming project.

In 2019, Burke played drums with Blondie tribute act Bootleg Blondie.

Blondie has sold over 40 million records worldwide.