Clem Burke, the drummer for Blondie, has died at 70 after privately battling cancer.
The iconic New York City rock band, which singer Debbie Harry and guitarist Chris Stein originally founded in 1974, announced Burke’s death on social media on Monday.
“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,” Harry, 79, and Stein, 75, said in a statement on the official Blondie instagram page.
The Post reached out to Harry for comment.
Guitarist Chris Stein, singer Debbie Harry, bass player Nigel Harrison, drummer Clem Burke, guitarist Frank Infante and keyboard player Jimmy Destri. Getty Images
Clem Burke attends the “Dog Day” Afternoon Launch Event at the 100 Club in London on March 7, 2023. Dave J Hogan/Getty Images
Clem Burke, Debbie Harry and Chris Stein of Blondie attend the ASCAP 2019 Pop Music Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif., on May 16, 2019. Getty Images for ASCAP
“Clem was not just a drummer. He was the heartbeat of Blondie,” they continued. “His talent, energy, and passion for music were unmatched, and his contributions to our sound and success are immeasurable.”
They called Burke “a source of inspiration” both on and off stage, beyond his music.
“His vibrant spirit, infectious enthusiasm and rock solid work ethic touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”
The rock band — known for hits like “Call Me” and “One Way Or Another” — initially lasted from 1974 to 1982, but they reunited in 1997. Their most recent album was 2017’s “Pollinator,” which Burke played the drums on.
In between Blondie stints, Burke briefly played the drums for Ramones in 1987. He also played with music legends such as David Bowie and Bob Dylan.
Chris Stein, Clement Burke, James Destri and Nigel Harrison, with Debbie Harry pose for a portrait in March 1977 at the Griffith Park Observatory in Los Angeles, California. Michael Ochs Archives
Clem Burke of Blondie performs onstage at 2023 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 21, 2023, in Indio, California. Getty Images for Coachella
Rock group Blondie, including Chris Stein, Clem Burke, James Destri and Nigel Harrison with Debbie Harry, pose for a portrait in March 1977 on a hill beneath the Hollywood Sign in Los Angeles, California. Michael Ochs Archives
Burke was married to his wife, Ellen Burke, for over 20 years since 2003. The couple didn’t have children.
The statement didn’t specify what type of cancer Burke had, but it went on to praise his influence 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,” they said.
Blondie drummer Clem Burke dies aged 70 (seen here at the 21st Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony). FilmMagic
Clem Burke of Blondie performs on opening night of the Rage and Rapture Tour at the Mountain Winery on July 5, 2017, in Saratoga, California. WireImage
Chris Stein (in striped shirt), Jimmy Destri (in red shirt with sunglasses), Debbie Harry (in Starliner 77 T-shirt), Gary Valentine (in black suit) and Clem Burke (in polka-dot shirt) of the rock ‘n’ roll band Blondie pose for a portrait session at the Bel Air Sand Hotel in 1977 in Los Angeles, California. Michael Ochs Archives
Harry and Stein added, “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,” the statement concluded. “As we navigate this profound loss, we ask for privacy during this difficult time. Godspeed, Dr. Burke.”
