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 11:00pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered cymbal reflecting warm, golden stage lighting, capturing the vibrant energy and legacy of Clem Burke's drumming for the band Blondie.A shattered cymbal reflects the enduring legacy of Blondie's legendary drummer Clem Burke, whose vibrant spirit and unmatched talent left an indelible mark on the band's iconic sound.Indio Today

Blondie 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, describing Burke as the 'heartbeat of Blondie' whose 'talent, energy, and passion for music were unmatched.' Burke joined the iconic new wave group in 1975 and appeared on all of their records, the last being 2017's 'Pollinator.' He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Blondie in 2006. The band is expected to release a new album, 'High Noon,' in 2026, which Blondie co-founder Chris Stein has said features Burke's drumming.

Why it matters

Clem Burke was an integral part of Blondie's legendary sound and success over the band's nearly 50-year career. His sudden passing at age 70 after a private battle with cancer was a major loss for the group and the music industry. Blondie's public remembrance of Burke on the one-year anniversary of his death highlights the enduring impact he had on the band and their loyal fanbase.

The details

Blondie announced Burke's death on April 7, 2025, revealing that he passed away 'following a private battle with cancer.' The band described Burke as 'not just a drummer' but 'the heartbeat of Blondie,' whose 'talent, energy, and passion for music were unmatched.' Burke joined Blondie in 1975, shortly after the group formed in New York City, and appeared on all of their studio albums, the last being 2017's 'Pollinator.' He 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 one-year anniversary of his death in 2026.
  • Blondie is expected to release a new album, 'High Noon,' in 2026, which will feature Burke's drumming.

The players

Blondie

An iconic American new wave and rock band formed in New York City in 1974, known for hits like 'Heart of Glass,' 'Call Me,' and 'Rapture.'

Clem Burke

The longtime drummer for Blondie who passed away in 2025 at the age of 70 after a private battle with cancer. He joined the band in 1975 and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Blondie in 2006.

Debbie Harry

The lead singer and co-founder of Blondie.

Chris Stein

The co-founder and guitarist of Blondie.

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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. 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.”

— Debbie Harry and Chris Stein, Blondie Co-Founders

What’s next

Blondie is expected to release a new album, 'High Noon,' in 2026, which will feature Clem Burke's drumming.

The takeaway

Clem Burke's sudden passing was a major loss for Blondie and the music world, but his legacy as the 'heartbeat' of the iconic band will live on through their continued success and the enduring impact of his drumming and creative spirit.