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Indio Today
By the People, for the People
Blondie Remembers Drummer Clem Burke on 1-Year Anniversary of His Death
The band pays tribute to their longtime drummer who passed away in 2025 after a private battle with cancer.
Apr. 6, 2026 at 10:00pm
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Blondie's late drummer Clem Burke left an indelible mark on the band's sound and legacy through his unmatched talent and passion for music.Indio TodayBlondie is remembering their late drummer Clem Burke on the one-year anniversary of his death at age 70. The band shared a heartfelt message on social media, calling Burke 'the heartbeat of Blondie' and praising his 'talent, energy, and passion for music' that were 'unmatched.' Burke joined the iconic new wave band in 1975 and appeared on all of their records, including their upcoming 2026 album 'High Noon,' which Blondie co-founder Chris Stein says Burke played on before his passing.
Why it matters
Clem Burke was a crucial part of Blondie's signature sound and success over their decades-long career. His death is a major loss for the band and their fans, who are mourning the passing of a beloved and influential musician. This anniversary tribute highlights Burke's enduring legacy and the indelible mark he left on the band and the music industry.
The details
Blondie announced Burke's death on April 7, 2025, revealing that he passed away 'following a private battle with cancer.' Burke, born Clement Anthony Bozewski, joined Blondie in 1975, shortly after they formed in New York City. He appeared on all of their records, the last one being 2017's 'Pollinator.' Burke was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Blondie in 2006.
- Clem Burke died on April 7, 2025.
- Blondie is remembering Burke on the 1-year anniversary of his death in 2026.
The players
Clem Burke
The longtime drummer for the band Blondie, who passed away in 2025 at the age of 70 after a private battle with cancer. Burke joined Blondie in 1975 and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with the band in 2006.
Blondie
The iconic new wave band formed in New York City in the 1970s, known for hits like 'Heart of Glass' and 'Call Me.' The band members include Debbie Harry and Chris Stein.
What they’re saying
“It is difficult to believe a year has passed... there is a hole in our hearts. Yet his energy lives on—vibrant, resonating in ways we can't fully understand. You are deeply missed, @clem.burke.”
— Blondie, Band
“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.”
— Debbie Harry and Chris Stein, Blondie Band Members
What’s next
Blondie is expected to release a new album, 'High Noon,' in 2026, which Stein has said that Burke played on before his passing.
The takeaway
Clem Burke's death is a profound loss for Blondie and their fans, as he was an integral part of the band's iconic sound and success over their decades-long career. This tribute highlights Burke's enduring legacy and the indelible mark he left on the music industry.
