BLONDIE drummer Clem Burke has passed away aged 70.
The legendary rock n’ roller died following a “private battle with cancer”.
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The rock band shared a touching tribute, which read: “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 was born in Bayonne, New Jersey, on November 24, 1954.
He started life behind the drum kit in the late 1960s and early 1970s with New Jersey’s Bayonne.
Clem then moved to New York in 1975 and joined the first Blondie line-up.
The band scored a massive international hit with 1978’s Plastic Letters.
Burke’s drumming underpinned Blondie hits like Denis, Dreaming and Union City Blue.
He was a livewire on stage and Blondie would often end their set with Burke leapfrogging over his kit.
When Blondie was disbanded, Burke played drums for the Romantics during the 1980s and 1990s.
Burke was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006 as a member of Blondie.
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