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BORN
1954
DIED
2025
Clem Burke Obituary
Clem Burke, who played drums for the pioneering rock band Blondie for more than 50 years, died April 6, 2025 of cancer at the age of 70.
Though on paper there was an earlier iteration of the band with Billy O'Connor (1953–2015) on drums, that lasted just a few months, and the band wasn't truly fleshed out until Burke's driving rhythms were added in the spring of 1975. He helped give them a groove that would propel Blondie to stardom on the heels of massive hits like "Heart of Glass," "One Way or Another," "Call Me," "The Tide Is High," and "Rapture," with their blend of pop and early punk being mixed with reggae, disco, and other genres to create something wholly new. Burke remained a steady presence throughout the band's entire career, including several breakups and reunions. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006 along with the rest of the band.
When not playing with Blondie, Burke played with the Romantics, best known for their enduring hits "What I Like About You" and "Talking in Your Sleep." At various times he also sat in with the Ramones, Dramarama, Joan Jett, Nancy Sinatra, Eurythmics, and many others.
"Clem was not just a drummer; he was the heartbeat of Blondie," the band said in a written statement. "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."
(Image: Maureen Donaldson/Getty Images)
91 Entries
Teena Bankes
July 26, 2025
Still missing you forever in our hearts
Gary
July 14, 2025
I appreciate what you have us and what you did. Amazing. Thankyou
Amy E. Condit
July 1, 2025
Thinking of you today, Clem, and missing you and all your contributions. Thankfully you live on in music that we can listen to anytime we like. Sincere condolences to your family, friends, and Blondie bandmates.
Stephanie Tijink
May 30, 2025
RIP Clem always loved watching you banging on the drums. You will be missed.
Stephanie a big fan
How you can show support
Edward Lopez III
May 23, 2025
You were, are, and always will be my drumming idol. I remember pestering my local drum shop for months, dreaming of owning a Premier kit just like yours. When I finally got one, it marked the true beginning of my journey in percussion.
Beyond your musical talent, you were an inspiration to me as a person-especially through your incredible drumming research project, which truly captured your spirit and passion. I'm certain that the rhythm you brought to your battle with cancer will echo as a powerful backbeat, guiding generations to come.
Thank you for the music you so eloquently shared with the world. Godspeed-and rock in peace.
Brad T Barber
May 4, 2025
Clem, One of my all time favorite drummers. My condolences to family, and friends!
Jane Toner
April 27, 2025
Philip Paine
April 26, 2025
Thanks for the memories and glad that I met you twice ....in Leeds and London.
Lyn Langton
April 24, 2025
A unique drummer and sweet man
We will miss you!
Taken too soon
May you rest in peace!
J Hoffman
April 23, 2025
A truly amazing musician who made Blondie stand out. I will always remember his creative genius and humility. May he rest in peace with God by his side.
Joseph Corradino
April 21, 2025
Rest In Peace Clem. You mighty drummer!
Mike
April 20, 2025
So sad two of my favourite bands , both lost their drummers , Rick in February and Clem in April. Glad I managed to see Debbie and Clem at Scarborough, Blondie never going to be the same without him, been a fan since Denis and Parallel lines my first album
Kim Bobby
April 18, 2025
RIP
Debbie Gregson
April 18, 2025
Best drummer ever !!
Will be sadly missed
Janice Nilsen
April 16, 2025
So sorry to hear of Clem´s passing. He was a dear friend to my brother, Ronnie Kankas, who passed away 7 years ago. R.I.P. Clem.
James Carpenter
April 16, 2025
Rest in light Clem thank you for being part of my life for so many years from childhood to adulthood you will never be forgotten
John
April 15, 2025
Brilliant brilliant brilliant drummer. And a genuinely nice bloke.
Wesley Knight
April 14, 2025
My thoughts go out to family and friends at this sad time. I watched on from a far as a blondie fan, my thoughts are with blondie fans also and to the band Blondie Chris Debbie Jimmy and all that played with Clem. Best drummer in the world gone but never forgotten. Clem may you rest in peace. I share a picture of myself and Clem who was kind enough to say hello in London Brixton back in 2017
Jana
April 14, 2025
A great drummer and a nice person. RIP Clem . You will be greatly missed.
Gavin
April 14, 2025
My hero
Mark Payne
April 14, 2025
RIP Clem you will always be my favourite drummer your music lives on
Bob Papalski
April 14, 2025
Clem always made time for his childhood friends from Bayonne. I´m sure Pedro was waiting for you with his bass! R.I.P. Clem
xo Bobby
Emanuel Brady
April 14, 2025
God rest your soul Clem you will be sadly missed but thanks for being the best drummer in the best band in the world PS keep on dreaming.
Leyla
April 14, 2025
The heartbeat of Blondie...Rest in peace Clem
Steven
April 14, 2025
RIP Clem, you were a legend in music history
ANTHONY PALMIERI
April 13, 2025
Rest in peace dear friend and classmate. You'll be sorely missed.
Your friend Tony Palmieri (Class of 72)
Susan Palmieri
April 13, 2025
Clem's talent was obvious even in high school when he was playing
with Total Environment; loved everything he did with Blondie,
excited to hear one of his songs start playing anywhere and everywhere
as the years went by, rejoicing for his success! Sincere condolences to
Clem's wife, family, friends, and fans for the void his passing has left.
Susan Palmieri, Bayonne High School Class of 1972
ANTHONY PALMIERI
April 13, 2025
Rest in peace brother. Only the good die young. You'll be sorely missed.
Your friend and classmate, Tony Palmieri (Class of 72)
Jane
April 13, 2025
Thanks for the music
Thanks for the memories
Ian Button
April 13, 2025
Rest easy Clem always remember the first time I saw Blondie on top of the pops in the UK your drumming blew me away then and always will . Thank you for the music and godspeed x
Helen Reed
April 13, 2025
Thanks for the memories Clem, you understood what it was like being a fan as you were also a fan. Drumming was your life which you made a big part of our lives too, you may be gone but not forgotten as a light has definitely dimmed on my childhood memories of Blondie, but burns very bright when I listen to those songs, the memories and you will not fade away but radiate.
Breonna
April 13, 2025
Rest in peace, Clem. You were the best!
Gill Hart
April 13, 2025
I´m heartbroken I will never forget you Clem, I am truly grateful that I met you, such a beautiful soul
Ingrid Mensinga
April 13, 2025
Clem Burke was one of the worlds best drummers. I´m a fan of Blondie since 1978. The last time I saw Clem was in 2014 Paradiso Amsterdam. I took a picture with him and my then 13 year old son Max. Clem was a very sweet and approachable man. The world an I will mis him. Thanx Clem for your Music!!
Mark steele
April 13, 2025
A total and utter legend.
You made a lot of people smile with your energy , friendship and coolness.
We will never forget you Clem .
Jeff Elder
April 13, 2025
Thank you for the inspiring performances over the years. You were a special guy and will be missed.
Paulien Stukker
April 13, 2025
My deepest condolences to Clem´s family and friends who loved him and all Blondie members. The best drummer, always took the time to talk with his fans all over the world. He will be missed. Rest in Peace Clem.
Kevin Duffy
April 13, 2025
Clem your soaring drums will always be remembered, thank you for all the wonderful Blondie gigs that I had the honour to attend. Blondie will always be a massive part of my life, thanks for being so amazing with all your fans. It was an honour to meet you the times I did.
Dreaming is free...
Sandra Lee
April 13, 2025
Thank you, Clem for the decades of unmatched entertainment, and also for your friendship and conversation during Boston visits. A true gentleman. May you rest in the sweetest peace. My thoughts and prayers are with your band mates, your friends and family members during this difficult time. You were one in a million, for certain.
Karilyne
April 13, 2025
Legend of a drummer and a kind sweet man thank you for the music rest up Clem...never to be forgotten
Lui
April 13, 2025
Thanks Clem Burke you leave behind your incredible talent in so many songs and I will cherish them till it´s time for me to leave this planet
Lui
April 13, 2025
Thanks Clem you leave behind your incredible talent in so many songs and I cherish them
Jamie Schreder
April 12, 2025
You will be missed by me greatly. Thank you for sharing your skills
Robert Bozewski
April 12, 2025
Rest easy Cuz you will be missed.Keep pounding those drums for the man upstairs.
Steven Remote
April 12, 2025
Clem, as you soar towards the stars, know that you're deeply missed and forever in our hearts. Though you're not here any longer, your spirit shall forever beat those heavenly drum skins in our memories.
Mark Aulenbacher
April 12, 2025
my deepest sympathies to the family. & friends
an amazing person and musician love the great songs
& all the musicians members of Blondie Band
May the special memories you made together
help you through this difficult time.
his memory will forever be a source of inspiration.
Philip
April 11, 2025
My favourite drummer.
A top bloke.
A top band.
You'll be badly missed my friend.
And Blondie will surely realise that you are irreplaceable.
Al Cursi
April 11, 2025
Legend! my favorite drummer. was listening to "Plastic Letters" when I heard the news and I was honestly gutted. thank you for filling so many gaps in my life. you will forever be missed...but, I will remember you every time I hear one of the many songs you've played on. Rest in peace.
Robert Pitts
April 11, 2025
Clem was always kind to the fans. He treated us well. Going to miss him as he was, is, and always will be the best drummer.
Rest in Peace Dr. Burke.
Kevin T Armistead
April 11, 2025
Clem was my friend for over 50 years. My drummer in 2 bands starting in late High School and through college life.
An inspiration and fun person to be with . I'll always love and miss my friend.
Vincent Strickland
April 11, 2025
RIP Clem without doubt the heartbeat, behind Blondie - saw you drum a few times live w/?the band - always amazing !
Keith saunders
April 11, 2025
Will be well missed as a very tallented musician and a good man, some people don´t realise the work he has done for mental health, the drumming project in England. Clem never seemed to stop if he wasn´t playing with Blondie he would be off anywhere playing with another band.
RIP Clem Burke
Ted
April 11, 2025
Drumming legend RIP
Kris siedlecki
April 11, 2025
RIP Clem. Greatly missed. We will never forget your talent with the sticks
Michael Schwob
April 11, 2025
Y're a wonderful drummer, w'll remember you ever!
Elizabeth Lazo
April 10, 2025
RIP Clem- amazingly talented drummer , one of the best I´ve ever seen play. You are respected and loved by many. It is such a terrible loss that you are no longer with us.
Robert Mace
April 10, 2025
he sat in the back
but he laid the foundation
for the greatest band
Drew Williams
April 10, 2025
Clem was so wonderful with Blondie fans. Never failed to take a pic or ask me how I liked the show and very gracious with all he came in contact with. I remember one show he could tell had too much to drink and he said " watch that sharpie ". He didn´t want me to mark his white CBGB tee while I handed him a pic for him to sign. I´m so sad this week over the news but he´s smiling somewhere with all the love and adulation he gave the would with his talents and charisma. RIP Dr Burke. You are irreplaceable
Scott Coblio
April 10, 2025
I became a rabid Blondie fan in 1979 (when I was 14), and have remained so all my life. And while Debbie was the obvious focal point of my obsession, Clem was and has remained a positive, influential and almost familial figure in my life--almost like an Uncle! If you sustain this kind of heightened interest in a singer or group for long enough, they really do take on a familial importance in your life, as they become more and more interwoven in your own personal history. They become touchstones, especially when they are as warm and wonderful and as talented as Clem Burke. I met him once, and he remembered my name, uttered only once upon greeting him, and we spoke for a few minutes and at the end, he said "okay, thanks. Take care, Scott!" It always stuck with me. Most famous people don't use your name. They call you "buddy" or something generic, because they likely weren't listening when you introduced yourself. They were just wondering how soon they were going to be able to extricate themselves from you. With Clem, I got the feeling that he genuinely liked talking to fans. Anyone who shared his love of music was welcome to approach him--famous or not. And I also felt he made a point to get your name in the beginning, so he could use it at the end, as a means of showing his appreciation. Everything I've been reading in all the obits has only confirmed this suspicion---that he was as special a human being as he was spectacularly talented. I truly feel I've lost a family member. He was so vital and had so much passion, he would have gone on and on, contributing so much, making the world smile.
Casey Unger
April 10, 2025
Casey Unger
April 10, 2025
Clem you were the beat to my heart growing up and I cannot even express the void and the pain in my life that your passing left in my life. Love you and Blondie always and treasure the fact that I found you and Blondie in 1979. You guys literally saved my life when I discovered you at age 11. RIP. Love you always. Always will be touched by your presence in my life.
Casey
Susan Johnston
April 10, 2025
Clem you was my Idol since i first set eyes on you ! your drumming was fantastic ! fly high with the Angels taken far too soon, i used to love chatting to you you was always so nice Rest in Paradise !
Sharon L Mayer-Grady
April 10, 2025
Thank you, Dr. Burke, for opening a then 13-uear old San Diego, California girl's ears to the sound of BLONDIE, back in 1978! My sincere condolences to his wife and family, along with his musical group families. Clem Burke's joy in drumming affected millions, if not BILLIONS, of people. You shall be missed, dear Sir.
Carol
April 10, 2025
clem my heart skipped a. Beat when I read of your passing man I'm sad!
Selina
April 10, 2025
Saw you and blobdie 2 years ago in Birmingham. What a great drummer you were you will be missed so much. Keep on drumming up there.
Rhonda Garcia
April 10, 2025
Thank you for thee most amazing night ever! RIP Clem .
Jean Kernbach
April 10, 2025
Thank you Sir
Gabriela C Zarco
April 10, 2025
He was such a joyful musician.
George Scott
April 10, 2025
Devastating loss! Condolences to Clem´s family, friends, all the members of Blondie past and present, the many bands and musicians he has played with and, his millions of fans. Clem was a showman drummer. He played with passion, power and precision. He had great style and always looked cool. I´ll never forget his gold lame´ suit. I´m listening to "Eat To The Beat" today. Brilliant drumming! Much love!
Paul Blyth
April 10, 2025
Grew up with hearing Clems drumming hard in my headphones, he and Blondie are a large part of my life. Rest easy and thank you.
Gary Durose
April 10, 2025
My deepest condolences to all the family! He was an inspiration to me in my drumming adventure I have started late in my life! My wife and I saw Blondie play 2 years ago in Seattle and will attach a photo. He actually reached out to me on Messenger and we had brief chit chats. He was very encouraging! Blessings I am still grieving over his passing!
Paul Machon
April 10, 2025
Rip Clem. Condolences to the family. Thank you for the music.
Lee Paul
April 10, 2025
Deepest condolences to Clem's family,and to his Blondie family. The hours of joy he helped bring myself and all fans can never be repaid. Rest in peace Clem.
Ian
April 10, 2025
So sorry to hear that clem has passed. I have always been a huge Blondie fan and Clems drumming is a big part of that. I had the privilege of meeting him in Dublin after a panic of girls tour gig. He talked to me for a while and was the loveliest guy to talk to. A real gentleman. Made me feel at ease meeting an idol. Rest in peace Clem. Your legacy will live on x
Kaz
April 10, 2025
My love and respect clem, sweet dreams have fun with Keith
Paul Renouf
April 10, 2025
RIP Clem what a star and such a nice person to his fans. Absolutely gutted
Brian Van Duyn
April 10, 2025
We,i saw him perform many times in the 70s,80s,90s,with many different artists and he was absolutely amazing mostly with the blondie band. Atrue rocker & showman, excellent human being, musician and superb percutaneous! He will be greatly missed by all who truly knew and loved him! Jamming in heaven with Jesus now clem my beautiful friend..God bless and RIP...but keep pounding them skins..
Debra Smith
April 10, 2025
My condolences to your family. Clem was a very talented musician. Everyone loved his drum skills. May you reflect on Clem´s legacy and find solace. May God comfort your family.
Riezz Kienhuis
April 10, 2025
Dear family of Clem and members of Blondie, I would like to offer my condolences to you all for this terrible loss.
Clem was a common thread in my life with Blondie, from 1978 the band was part of my daily life and when I heard the news of Clem's passing that part of my life collapsed.
I will remember Clem as a powerful drummer and musician, but in my experience a very sweet man who always had a kind word for his fans and my few times after the gigs in his dressing room it was always a pleasant get-together with Clem and the fans and you could see that he enjoyed being a "pop star".
His signed drumstick hangs here with a large photo on the wall and it will stay there until I leave this earthly world.
Dear Clem rest in peace and let the angels hear what rock and roll is.............
Your fans will never forget you and the generation after us will not forget you either with all the legendary music you have given the world.
Colin Webb
April 10, 2025
Condolences to family & friends will be a big loss to the entertainment & music industry.Thank you for the music memories I grew up on that gave me joy & will be forever played in my lifetime.R.I.P you amazing musician
Mark
April 9, 2025
Rest in peace our fearless drummer. The world will not be the same without you. My heart goes out to all your loved ones and family.
Bob Ashworth
April 9, 2025
Clem. Oh how you are missed. Thanks for 50 years of greatness with Blondie. You were always the most kind & approachable Star. You were part of the soundtrack of my life. Thank you so much.
Ray Wohltman
April 9, 2025
Rest in Eternal Peace Clem!
James (Jim) Caswell
April 9, 2025
Fly high you drumming punk beast. You will be missed by many, but your beats will go on forever. Thank you for your talent, your tenacity, and your compassion. The legacy you leave will inspire musicians forever.
"All I need is a sign.
Make your presence known to mine.
Come to me, and I will be divine."
-Clement Bozewski / Kathy Valentine
Marcia King
April 9, 2025
Rest in peace
Terence Schaefer
April 9, 2025
Rip Bayonne´s finest drummer.
Al Lake
April 9, 2025
Rest easy,Clem thanks for your friendship,the world is gonna be a little quiter now see ya soon,Al Lake...
Marilyn A Pendleton
April 9, 2025
Rest in peace
Gina Erdman
April 9, 2025
You are one of my favorite drummers! Really bummed to hear of this big loss! Love your drumming man! Thank you so much! Rock in peace.
Rob Petrie
April 8, 2025
Condolences from Vancouver Loss of a Great Drummer and Personality.
Brigitte Smith
April 8, 2025
I am deeply saddened to hear of Clem's passing. He was a genuine stand up guy and an immensely talented and passionate musician.
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