East Village Pays Tribute to the Late Clem Burke

Blondie drummer remembered through music and stories at Bowery Palace event

Mar. 27, 2026 at 8:13pm

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A tribute event was held in New York's East Village to honor the life and legacy of Blondie drummer Clem Burke, who passed away last year at the age of 70 after a battle with cancer. The event featured performances by a lineup of musicians playing songs that Burke either recorded with Blondie or was known to love, along with shared stories and video montages celebrating his iconic drumming style.

Why it matters

Clem Burke was a legendary drummer who helped define the sound of the iconic new wave band Blondie. His death was deeply felt by music fans, especially in the East Village community where Blondie was a fixture of the 1970s punk scene. This tribute event allowed Burke's friends, collaborators, and admirers to come together to honor his life and lasting impact on music.

The details

The tribute event took place at the Bowery Palace in New York's East Village neighborhood. In addition to performances of Blondie hits like "Dreaming," "Union City Blue," and "One Way or Another," the lineup included musicians who had personal connections to Burke, such as his ex-girlfriend Kathy Valentine and Ramones member Jesse Malin. The event featured a montage showcasing Burke's legendary drumming skills, as well as shared stories and memories from those who knew him best.

  • Clem Burke passed away in April 2025 at the age of 70 after a battle with cancer.
  • The tribute event was held on March 26, 2026.

The players

Clem Burke

The legendary drummer for the iconic new wave band Blondie, known for his energetic and innovative drumming style.

Danny Sage

A musician who performed at the tribute event, opening with the deep Blondie cut "Poet's Problem" and later playing "Union City Blue."

Kathy Valentine

A longtime friend of Clem Burke's and his ex-girlfriend, who co-organized the tribute event and performed songs like "Hanging on the Telephone" and "Looking for a Kiss."

Jesse Malin

A musician who was recovering from a spinal stroke and performed "Rock 'n' Roll Radio" at the event as a nod to Burke's brief stint as "Elvis Ramone" in the Ramones.

Frankie Clarke

A performer at the tribute event who did rousing covers of Blondie's "Rip Her to Shreds" and the Ramones' "Rockaway Beach."

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What they’re saying

“We adore you and miss you. But your beat lives on forever.”

— Kenneth M. Walsh, Author

The takeaway

This tribute event showcased the enduring legacy of Clem Burke and the deep impact he had on the East Village music scene and the lives of those who knew him. Even in his absence, Burke's iconic drumming style and the music he helped create will continue to inspire musicians and fans for generations to come.