Late Blondie Drummer Clem Burke's Memoir to Be Released

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Blondie drummer Clem Burke, who passed away in 2025 at the age of 70, will have his memoir published posthumously in September 2026. The book, titled 'The Other Side of the Dream (My Life In and Out of Blondie)', was started over 20 years ago but often put aside due to Burke's commitments to the band. The memoir follows his journey from the streets of New York to stardom in Blondie, exploring the explosive punk scene that gave rise to the band, the creative partnerships that defined their music, and the challenges of navigating fame in a constantly evolving industry.

Why it matters

Blondie was one of the most influential bands of the punk and new wave eras, and Clem Burke's memoir offers a rare, insider's perspective on the band's rise to fame and the experiences of a longtime member. The book provides a unique glimpse into the life of a rock star and the music industry during a transformative period.

The details

According to the book's description, Burke began writing his memoir over 20 years ago but often put it aside due to his commitments to Blondie. However, when cancer treatment and illness forced his retirement, completing the book became a priority, which he did shortly before his death. The memoir, which includes a foreword by comedian Fred Armisen, follows Burke's journey from the streets of New York to stardom in Blondie, exploring the band's origins in the explosive punk scene, the creative partnerships that defined their music, and the challenges of navigating fame in a constantly evolving industry.

• Clem Burke passed away on April 6, 2025, at the age of 70.
• The memoir, 'The Other Side of the Dream (My Life In and Out of Blondie)', will be released in the U.S. on September 8, 2026.

What’s next

The memoir, 'The Other Side of the Dream (My Life In and Out of Blondie)', will be available for preorder now and will be released in the U.S. on September 8, 2026.