Clem Burke 1954-1975
In 1975, Burke joined the band Blondie, shortly after its formation by Debbie Harry and Chris Stein. His energetic and versatile drumming became a defining element of the band’s sound, playing on all the Blondie albums and contributing to hits like “Heart of Glass,” “Call Me,” and “One Way or Another.” He passed away at age 70.
Clem Burke 1954-1975
Clem Burke was born Clement Anthony Bozewski on November 24, 1954, in Bayonne, New Jersey. He began playing drums at an early age, influenced by his father, who was also a drummer. Burke’s early musical experiences included performing in local bands and participating in the St. Andrew’s Bridgemen Drum and Bugle Corps.
In 1975, Burke joined the band Blondie, shortly after its formation by Debbie Harry and Chris Stein. His energetic and versatile drumming became a defining element of the band’s sound, contributing to hits like “Heart of Glass,” “Call Me,” and “One Way or Another.” Burke played on all of Blondie’s albums, from their self-titled debut in 1976 to “Pollinator” in 2017. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Blondie in 2006.
Beyond Blondie, Burke collaborated with numerous artists and bands, including the Eurythmics, the Ramones (performing briefly under the pseudonym Elvis Ramone), Bob Dylan, Iggy Pop, Joan Jett, and the Go-Go’s. He was also involved in projects like Chequered Past, the Romantics, and the International Swingers. In addition to performing, Burke co-founded the Clem Burke Drumming Project, which studied the physical and mental health effects of drumming.
Clem Burke passed away on April 6, 2025, at the age of 70, after a private battle with cancer. His dynamic drumming and contributions to music left a lasting legacy in the rock and new wave genres. RIP.
Look back at the 1979 music video for Blondie’s signature song “Heart of Glass”
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