Drummer Clem Burke Dead After Private Health Battle: Blondie Issues Statement During a Time of “Profound Sadness”

While playing drums for stars like Bob Dylan, Iggy Pop, Joan Jett, and several others, Clem Burke will always be remembered for his time with Blondie. From the early 1970s, Burke found himself on stage with the band and stayed with them for the group’s entire career in the spotlight. He also appeared on every album alongside Chris Stein and Debbie Harry. Always thrilled to share his talents with the world, sadly, Burke recently passed away after battling cancer. 

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Passing away on April 7th, the news of the drummer battling cancer came as a shock to some as Burke remained silent on the matter. Releasing a statement about his death, Blondie wrote, “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.” The band continued, “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.”

[RELATED: “He Was Basically Out of His Mind”: Clem Burke Recalls Wild Iggy Pop Tour—No Food, Face-Smashing, and Mandates]

Blondie Insists Clem Burke Will Live On Through His Legacy

Insisting that Burke’s talents went far beyond his time with Blondie, the band praised the legacy he created in music. Having worked with some of the biggest names, the band wrote, “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.”

While navigating the loss of Burke, Blondie asked fans to allow them the time to grieve their friend and former drummer. “As we navigate this profound loss, we ask for privacy during this difficult time. Godspeed, Dr. Burke.”

Although Blondie noted how Burke’s expanded his career outside of the band, the drummer’s landed in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame thanks to his time with the group. And in December 2021, he returned to the Rock Hall to celebrate the Go-Go’s also finding a spot in the history of music.

(Photo by Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)