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Clarence Burke Obituary
His death was confirmed by Joe Marno, his friend and manager. No cause was given.
The Five Stairsteps — four brothers and a sister — formed in Chicago in the mid-1960s, having learned to play instruments and sing from their father, Clarence Sr., a police officer, and their mother, Betty. They were once called “the first family of soul,” a moniker later adopted by the Jackson 5.
It was Betty Burke who came up with the name the Five Stairsteps after noticing that when the siblings stood next to one another in order of age, they resembled a staircase.
Besides being the lead singer, Burke was the group’s choreographer and guitar player and wrote a number of its songs. At 16 he was the co-author of the group’s first hit, “You Waited Too Long,” which reached No. 16 on the Billboard R&B chart in 1966.
The Stairsteps had a string of hits, including “World of Fantasy” and “Something’s Missing,” but their only Top 10 pop hit was the tender ballad “O-o-h Child,” written by Stan Vincent, which sold more than a million copies and reached No. 8. The song has been sampled by many hip-hop artists, notably Tupac Shakur in his 1993 hit “Keep Ya Head Up.”
The others in the group were his sister, Alohe (contralto), and his brothers James III (first tenor), Kenneth (second tenor) and Dennis (baritone). A younger brother, Cubie, joined the group later.
Clarence N. Burke Jr. was born on May 25, 1949, in Chicago and attended Harlan High School there, as did his siblings. They survive him, as do his parents; two more brothers, Leonard and Martin; his wife, Crystal Howell-Burke; three sons, Clarence III, James IV and Khabeer; two daughters, Dichelle Connell and Nadirah Bannister; and many grandchildren. He lived in Marietta.
The Stairsteps’ last hit was “From Us to You,” released on George Harrison’s Dark Horse label in 1976. The band broke up soon after, but four of the brothers, including Burke, formed another group, the Invisible Man’s Band, in 1980. That group’s biggest hit was “All Night Thing.”
At his death Burke was still recording and performing as a solo artist.
By DANIEL E. SLOTNIK
Copyright © 2013 New York Times News Service
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
185 Entries
Yassiem Crawford
March 14, 2025
New them from the 1970, I was secretary to their New York fan club . Crystal Burke was president at the time.... Would love to talk to u. So sorry for your loss those were the best years of my life. I was known as Yassiem Bobbit back the please reach out. 404 312-7879
November 5, 2021
I knew the family when the stay in the project called Dearborn homes on 27th an Dearborn
Joseph Walsh
September 17, 2020
Thank you for all you have done. See you in paradise
CHARLENE COX-SHARIFF
August 17, 2020
"Newton," as I affectionately called him was a remarkable friend. In the beginning of the Stairsteps Story was a fun loving boy who had so many dreams of stardom. He lived them all. I will miss you my friend. We had fun.
How you can show support
Kennedy Brown
November 15, 2019
May You walk in the rays of a beautiful sun!
Sonja Marshall
July 22, 2019
I grew up listening to the 5 Stairsteps - in fact, I was about
5 years old when I started buying their 45's. I always thought
they were very mature sounding to be so young and the exotic
sounds of some of their records got me hooked. Clarence is now
walking in the rays of the beautiful sun. God's peace to his family.
Sonja L. Marshall
Raja Gambino
March 26, 2019
What a fantastic voice and to know that he was a songwriter at such a young age. His lyrics were magical. I still listen to their music on YouTube and was fortunate enough to find the vinyl years ago overseas.
Ruperta Jackson
October 31, 2018
I grew up with the group, have all their music. But, Clarence's voice is one I will never forget. I listen to him today, and his voice still goes through me.
Peace be unto you.
Would love to own a pic/poster of Clarence. If available.
Paulette Graham
April 16, 2018
Prayers to the family
March 14, 2018
God bless this good mans soul. Be in peace brother. Be in peace. And.. thank you for all of your great music.
Bob LaFlamme- Boston, Massachusetts
3/13/2018
Joyce Wilson
January 31, 2018
Thanks for the beautiful music that you and your family gave us. RIH Clarence. Fan for life.
RONALD COATS
January 12, 2018
LORD REST HIS SOUL.
January 10, 2018
The Stairsteps was the first professional singing group I saw. I thought they were the coolest thing partly because I looked a lot like them. Later, I discovered that I could sing all of their songs and sound like them. Clarence were the best.
October 8, 2017
"Come Back" to me
Your family is truly loved by the folks in Long Beach ca
Jeff Polk
September 27, 2017
July 16, 2017
miss ya Clarence without you It's a World of Fantasy wishing you could Come Back.
March 3, 2017
its been years, and I always come back to playing the beautiful songs of The Five Stairsteps. I loved this group and I always will. Please know that we all miss the soul smooth sound of the FIve Stairsteps.
Calvin Drake
November 16, 2016
We were children. together Clarence was always full of fun. He began writting music at a very young age.I became a broadcaster working at various radio stations in Cleveland, Ohio. WABQ, WJMO am then
WIFE am WTLC fm and WRTV (TV) in Indy.
Enjoyed playing their music on the air and off the air. His family and I are friends.
Clarence Jr. Will be missed.
RIP:
In His Service
Rev. Dr. Calvin Drake
Valenda Newell
July 8, 2016
5 STAIRSTEPS are the originals.......Jackson 5, SYLVERS and the rest don't compare............THANKS FOR BEING A TRAILBLAZER for the family groups........YOUR MUSIC WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN
May 25, 2016
Happy Birthday Newton! I wish you were still here.
S LEE
May 15, 2016
May you rest in peace.
ann Cornelius
March 1, 2016
We miss u so much where have u gone off with someone new
Darryle Crawford
February 11, 2016
RIP Clarence. I just wanted it to be known that the "2nd Resurrection" lp is one of my favorite albums of all times. I continue to listen to it today. The album to me is spiritual and a masterpiece of work. Thanks for the music.
Sue O'Connell
January 9, 2016
You and you sisters and brothers have given me joy and a feeling of uplifting hope for many years. Thank-you. God Bless you and yours always. Sue O'Connell
Bailey Rohan
August 7, 2015
I was heartsick to learn of Mr Burkes passing. Man oh man did I love The Five Stairsteps! When I first heard World of Fantasy it was over for me. That song alone hooked me as a lifelong fan. His voice was so sweet, mellow and rich we emotion I just lost my mind. I wanted the song to be played at my wedding, funeral, and any other major life experience I was having or ever going to have. Yeah okay I know, but I was all of 15 years old. Nonetheless, rest in peace Brother, you were absolutely a very gifted and talented musician. I loved all you did and am sad you're gone. God bless the family. Sincerely
Frances Green
July 30, 2015
You left your mark in this world your music is still being played on radio and in homes today RIP I loved all your music but my favorite dance hit was all night thang rest now with the Lord Frances of Pasadena California
Clennis High
April 6, 2015
God bless the Burke family, as Clarence rests in the arms of our creator. I met Clarence, and family many years ago as a musician myself. The father was a firm, but kind gentleman the kids were so well mannered. Clarence and I hung around a little and he was so well mannered and a pleasure to be around...God bless you my brother, and may god keep all in your family.
Clennis High
Albert Suggs Jr.
February 13, 2015
Please forgive me family i mistakingly used the name john when I meant Clarence. Don't know how this happened but nevertheless I loved the man and truly were amazed by his talents and personality. This brother was a class act on a sho nuf real tip. Again please forgive the name mistake.
al Suggs Jr.
February 11, 2015
Years ago the five stair steps came to Columbus ga and to see them perform was like magic. After the show john struck up a conversation with me as he and I walked through the arena. I was in awe to see that john were so down to earth. All the girls and the guys were starring at us, my stock went up and knowing john has passed deeply sadden me. To his parents and sibling I send my condolences and thank you family for sharing your awesome son/ brother with the world. I loved him, R.I.P kind soul
Sheree Davis
February 11, 2015
I am so heartbroken to hear of the death of Clarence Burke Jr. Your music was the songtrack of our lives! We could identify with your group and your music! A beautiful positive black family! Clarence was my teenage heartthrob!!! I am so saddened that there will not be an opportunity to hear you again in person! Also, I am saddened to hear of the passing of younger brother Cubie. My condolences to your familes! Please know you are loved and don't stop making music or appearances because many loyal fans out here love you and long for your music. The Five Stairsteps never received the recognition you deserved.
Arlene Daniels-Knapper-Caesar
December 7, 2014
RIP my friend. From the days of the Uptown theater with Georgie Woods and Jimmy Bishop.....may this candle reflect the light you allowed to be shown through your inspired songs....The first family of Soul! Sorry for your loss. Love to the family.....
Arlene Daniels-Knapper-Caesar
December 7, 2014
So sorry to hear of the loss of Clarence as well as younger brother Cubie earlier this year. My deepest condolences to the entire Burke family for the gift of song & music that your family gave so lovingly to us. Clarence, you will always be remembered for your great smile and your unforgettable voice I will never forget your creative genius, nor the love of your family so clearly visible to all. Family, remain strong and continue to rely on each other as a source of strength and love as you did for many with your gifts. God bless you all. We loved your loved ones and we always will love the legacy of The Five Stairsteps......never to be forgotten!!
December 5, 2014
I've just learned that Clarence Jr passed away. Lord bless the Burke family.
RENEE BAPTISTE
November 9, 2014
I HAVE ALWAYED LOVED THIS FAMILY, ESPECIALLY KNOWING THEY ARE FROM THE CHI, I WAS A CHILD GROWING UP IN THE CHI AS WELL, OOH CHILD, GOD BLESS THIS TALENTED AND WONDERFUL FAMILY.
Delores Medley
October 24, 2014
God be with the Burke family...Clarence and the group were the best teenage group ever!!! My friends and I use to try to make all their shows in the NY area. He used to call me "DeeDee Sharp." RIP my friend.
Estelle Pettey
September 18, 2014
Peace to the Burke family. I caught only one show in my teen years but the memory is very vivid to this day.
Estelle Pettey
September 18, 2014
Clarence Burke was my first real "celebrity" crush...LOL! Was heartbroken to learn of his passing. Was also looking forward to catching one of his solo shows. As for me, the Stairsteps remain the "First Family of Soul". May he RIP.
Amanda King
May 23, 2014
Was heart broken to hear about Clarence. He was a musical force to reckon with. Had a voice smooth as silk. Still love to hear his voice on Danger She's a Stranger. "Eubie ooh.". RIP you will always remain in our hearts forever.
Maurice Adams
January 11, 2014
I remember you when your family came to alt geld gardens to perform, and you lived on 99th and king drive, second house from the corner, your family was great
Martha H. C.
December 28, 2013
RIP - The Five Stairsteps music was a part of my younger days. Never knew what happened to the group nor did I know I lived in the same area as one of the 5 Stairsteps. Your music is not forgotten. Continued blessings to your family.
Rudolph Barnes
November 8, 2013
Thank you. You and your families music shaped my teenage years in Brooklyn, NY and thousands of teenagers across the country. You brought the "Look of Love" to our generation.
S.I.P. Job well done, my brother, Clarence Burke Jr.
September 26, 2013
OH my..sorry to hear this...I was looking at the Soul Train appearance and ran across this.. We use go to the Howard Theatre EVERY time the Five Stairsteps were there..Peace and Blessings to the entire family.
September 21, 2013
the greatest vocal group of all time ,and the best choreogrphy in the world .....clerence was a musical hero in this worlds life and will pjrobably be even mor so in the next ....as salaam u alakum my brother
Cathy Joyner
August 13, 2013
Cathy and Keith Joyner - Houston,Texas
RIP- will always Love your music!!!
God bless your family.
audrey freeman
August 6, 2013
the 5 stairsteps gave us hope to keep on. when things were tough GOD bless them all.
Floree Lee
August 2, 2013
Never to be forgotten. May you rest in peace.
August 2, 2013
ONE OF MY FAVORITE SONGS OF ALL TIMES MANY MORORIES MAY THE FAMILY FIND PEACE AND COMFORT KNOWING THE JOY THESE TALETENT MEN BROUGHT TO MANY
Susan and Albert Alioto
July 10, 2013
Thank you for music that made the world a better place.
Brenda
July 8, 2013
I loved The Five Stairsteps,especially when I was a teen. RIP Clarence YOU WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN.
Brenda Parker
July 4, 2013
Another Angel has spreaded his wings and flown home. We no longer have Clarence with us; but we will forever have his beautiful voice to serenade us and lift our spirits. RIP Clarence.
lynn smith
July 3, 2013
Oooh!! childdd we are going to miss youuu,,Oooh child thanks for the music,,oooh child you are in a better place and oooh child we will see you again. Clarence this is my tribute to you, if you sing the melody to oooh child!! at the beginning of this post you will see how much you and your family and group meant to me,thanks for the music and the talent, and you also were a very handsome gentleman, your music is timeless and I know heaven is rejoicing at another great musical talent to add to the heavenly choir, God Bless and RIP!!!!!
John Sheridan
July 1, 2013
Thanks to Clarence Jr. for the beautiful music. Condolences to his family for their loss.
debrouski mathis
June 17, 2013
Sorry to hear about the lost of Clarence. I had the pleasure of working with him. he will be missed
June 16, 2013
Clarence Burke Jr - May you fly away with your wing's in heaven now with the angel's - R.I.P. - Your friend - Larry Dixon
Tommie Welch
June 12, 2013
My Stairsteps, I will always remember the great music.
Donald & Sharon Somerville
June 10, 2013
Keni,
We are sorry to hear of the lost of your brother brother, will miss his smiling face.
RIP Clarence
June 10, 2013
I will never forget the Burke siblings. We enjoyed having celebrities in our midst. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family. Former Harlan classmate
Kimber
June 10, 2013
Condolences to the entire Burke Family.I was so into the music of the Stairsteps,feels like i've lost a friend. Thanks and Rest in Peace Clarence!
June 10, 2013
My sincere condolences to the entire family.I always held the STAIRSTEPS as one of fovorite groups of all times.Happy to have seen them live in DC and on the campus of NC A&T. I placed them in high esteem, very much saddened by these events.Rest in peace Clarence.
Richard solis
June 10, 2013
Truly amazing as a performing act, awesome in person, the site that may never be seen again. God Bless You and all your wonderful family. The Lord is happy to have another great lead in the eternal choir. Loved the show in San Antonio, Texas say 1970 or so. Love it.Rest in peace for so much joy you brought all our lives. Say hi to Curtis and of course Marvin Junior.
Michael Erwin
June 10, 2013
Aunt Betty and the rest of the family I want to share with your our heartfelt sympathy. Call when you get a chance. I remember the kids growing up. We need to stay in contact. Best always, Love and Stuff. Mickey
June 9, 2013
Of the many blessings in my life, I was extremely blessed to have witnessed the most talented group of all time the 5 stairsteps. RIP Clarence
nancy ferry
June 9, 2013
Rest in peace. Loved OOOH BABY as a teen growing up in the 60's. Skeeter
The Lewis Family
June 7, 2013
To the family of Clarence Burke, Jr. May "the God of all comfort" be with you during this time of sadness. May you also find hope in His promises found in his Written Word.
Haneef Al-Ghani
June 5, 2013
Peace&Blessings to the family of Clarence Burke Jr.He will be greatly missed but never forgotten! The 5 Stairsteps were 1 of my favorite groups, Along with Smokey & The Miracles and Little Anthony! Your music will reverberate troughout the universe for eternity! Peace Be Unto You & Family.
earl scott
June 5, 2013
five stairsteps....great group...i always wanted to be clarence back in the 60's
Evelyn Steward
June 4, 2013
I feel so privileged to have known him God Bless the family thank you for sharing him with us all, I will always cherish my Album, 45 and now CD.
Eve Steward-Southside of Chicago
I love yoU ( CB ) Burke and your Family as weLL Peace be with yoU on your new journey of LiFe Love and Tranquility "I miss your smile man" ;-)
RodericK MicKens & FamiLY
June 4, 2013
Roderick MIckens
June 4, 2013
We LoVe yoU Clarence, and I'll always be HaPPy for you & and will never for forgeT the many times we shared together :-) God BlesS & resT with the StaRS ;-) Peace BeLoveth
Vee Bennett
June 4, 2013
To Ms. Betty, Mr. Burke singer and the rest of the Burke Family; my heart and prayers are with each and everyone of you during this sad time. Clarence will surely be missed. His music and legacy will continue to live on and it has been a pleasure knowing him ans well as the rest of the family.
Vickie Green
June 4, 2013
Thank you for sharing your many gifts and talents with us. Your impact on a generation is everlasting.
June 4, 2013
My condolences to family and friends on this loss. I loved that group with their harmonious voices .Soon God will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more.
Michelle Harris
June 4, 2013
May the Peace of God be with the family of Clarence.
June 4, 2013
What precious memories you have to cherish! May God comfort the family and friends during this season of your lives. I am sorry for your loss. Rest in peace, Clarence.
V Jurgenson
June 3, 2013
Such a beautiful voice, thank you to his mom and dad for shareing him with us. RIP
Lois Reid
June 3, 2013
My condolences to the Burke family.
I'm feel so privlage to have seen the
five stairsteps live several times. The best times of my life. Cherishes memories. Clarence my friend "rest in peace" and May God Be with you. God Bless.
Monisa Gracy-Frye
June 3, 2013
May you rest in peace Mr. Clarence Burke Jr.
Donna Jennings
June 3, 2013
RIP Clarence, you will truly be missed. Grew up in Chicago listing and loving "The Five Stairsteps" and your gifts you brought to the music world. I have to say that all of you were my favorites and I will remember the music. Always a Fan!!!
June 3, 2013
HAPPY ARE THE MILD-TEMPERED ONES,SINCE THEY WILL INHERIT THE EARTH.matt.5:5..sincere condolence to the family....~dee~
S Daniels
June 3, 2013
I would like to offer my condolences to the family. No doubt, Mr. Burke's contribution to the music world had an impact on many and he will be missed. May God strengthen and comfort you in your time of loss.
michelle plakas-kaiser
June 2, 2013
rip
ooh child is awesome
Gloria Magwood
June 2, 2013
My sympathy to the Burke family the first family of soul so sorry to hear of clarence jr. passing I have been a fan since my teens in NY our fan club was in the Bronx. My prayers are with your family.
June 2, 2013
SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS, MAY YOU DRAW CLOSE TO GOD AND FIND COMFORT IN READING HIS WORD.
The Bird
June 2, 2013
One of my favorite groups; great memories.
To The Burke Family; May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Clarence will be greatly missed by all.
God Bless!
brenda rudersmith
June 2, 2013
rip Clarence you and your siblings where among my fave groups and ooh child by far a brilliant song god bless your family
S
June 2, 2013
Thank you for your music, Mr. Burke. Listening to "Ooh Child" until it wore down the needle on my little record player brought me through troubling times. When I posted on Facebook yesterday a message of Rest in Peace, I was floored to discover how many of my friends also cherished the song -- with several reporting it was their all-time favorite. Ultimately, the positive influence of Clarence Burke and all the Five Stairsteps was far beyond number of singles and albums sold. That one song was an anthem for all those sad, in mourning, hungry, abused, or suicidal. I am sure it saved many from despair. I hope he knew this.
Prayers and blessings for him, his family, friends and all who loved him and his music.
Ann Cornelius
June 2, 2013
May your soul rest in pease gone too soon
Ralph Young
June 2, 2013
RIP Clarence. Brother... I loved the harmonic sounds created by you and Alohe. I listened to and loved the 5 Stairsteps music from Day 1. The artistry was superb! Thank you and the Burke Family for the great songs and those many good memorable moments. 1949 alum.
Darlene Hamilton
June 1, 2013
Mr. Clarence Burke, Jr., and his brothers and sister, brought so much joy to my life through their music. I listen to their music to this day, because it continues to touch my heart and my spirit. May he rest in peace and feel the love from those of us who are eternally grateful to him and his family.
June 1, 2013
I was heart broken to hear about Clarence Burke, Jr. The "Five Stairsteps" songs will always be a part of our family memories. A World of Fantasy was my favorite! Wow...Peace be with the Burke Family!!! God Bless!!! (College Park, Ga)
THOMAS FAMILY
June 1, 2013
TO BE ABSENT FROM THE BODY IS TO BE PRESENT WITH THE LORD....REST ON ...IN THE ARMS OF THE LORD....GO IN PEACE....WHILE UR MUSIC IS LEFT BEHIND..AND WILL BE PLAYED BY MANY FOR MANY YEARS TO COME... THE THOMAS FAMILY...FROM CHICAGO...YOU WILL BE MISSED....THANKS FOR THE LIFE OF OUR NEPHEW..AND COUSIN..CLARENCE III...WE LOVE YOU...GOODBYE....CLARENCE JR.
Yvette Shephard
June 1, 2013
I was so sorry to hear about the passing of Clarence. I'm fr Chgo. and I grew up listening to the "Five Stairsteps" album, which I still have and cherish. My condolences goes out to
the family. RIP
Brian Terry
June 1, 2013
Luv U 4 Ever - Clarence
eugene kirby
June 1, 2013
Rip
Betty Bruce
June 1, 2013
Enjoyed hearing you sing..Many good memories from years past..Will be missed.
Rain Watkins
June 1, 2013
RIP Clarence
The last thing I expected to hear was of your passing.I remember the first time I heard your voice I became an instant fan then and now form Ooh Child to Something is Missing all of these songs hold great memories.May the heavenly grant your family strenght, peace, and comfort during this trying time and know that He now walks in the rays of a beautiful sun.Fan Forever
June 1, 2013
Rest in peace. Still singing "O-o-h Child" today. Great music and memories of my youth. Condolences to the family. Baltimore, MD
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