Clem Burke, the long time batterist of the legendary Blondie rock group, has died. He was 70 years old.
Blondie announced Burke’s passage to the band History of Instagram Monday.
“It is with a deep sadness that we meet news of the passage of our beloved friend and bandmate Clem Burke after a private battle with cancer,” the band wrote.
“Clem was not just a batterist; he was the heartbeat of the heart of Blondie. His talent, energy and passion for music were unmatched, and his contributions to our sound and success are unmistakable,” Blondie continued. “Beyond his music, Clem was a source of inspiration both on stage and on stage. His vibrant spirit, infectious enthusiasm and ethics of solid work touched everyone who had the privilege of meeting him.”
Burke was born Clement Anthony Bozewski on November 24, 1954 in Bayonne, New Jersey. Burke’s musical career began after he met guitarist Steve Jones at various rock concerts in London, England, in the mid -1970’s, his IMDB Biography States.
Burke joined Blondie in 1975 and performed in all band’s albums, including the band’s autonomous debut and Landmark albums “Paralle Lines” and “Eat to the Beat” (1979). Burke stayed with Blondie until the group dissolved in 1982.
Later, Burke would become the Eurythmics drummer in the 1980’s and played two concerts with the Ramones in 1987.
Among the many artists with which Burke worked is Pete Townsend, Bob Dylan, Iggy Pop, Joan Jett, The Romantics, Wanda Jackson, Johnny Thunders, The Plimsouls and Dramarama.
Burke was Entered in the Rock & Roll Fame Hall Along with the rest of Blondie in 2006. He recently played a drummer for several bands, including Slinky Vagabond, Magic Christian and the Hugh Cornwell band.
Out of music, Burke co -founded the Clem Burke’s battery project In 2008. The research initiative explores the physical, mental and battery health benefits. In 2011, Burke received an honorary doctorate from the University of Gloucestershire for his work, Stereogum reported.