Who is Clem Burke’s wife? Blondie drummer’s relationship explored following his tragic passing

Blondie drummer Clem Burke passed away on April 7 after battling cancer. The news of the new wave drummer’s tragic death was broken through his band, Blondie's, Instagram page, which also revealed the musician’s cause of death.

Clem Burke is survived by his wife, Ellen. As per The Sun, Ellen and Clem married in 2002. The outlet also reported that Burke’s wife, Ellen, was a pediatric nurse.

Little is known about the couple’s private life, which they kept under wraps despite Burke being a revered music figure. The couple were frequently seen at public events, though, such as for the premiere of B.C. Butcher by Kansas Bowling.

Clem and Ellen, whose maiden name is Sanderson, celebrated each other often by posting their partner’s photographs on social media.

In February 2023, Burke took to Instagram to wish his wife a ‘happy birthday,’ posting an image of her smelling flowers.

Similarly, Burke was captured while whale watching by Ellen in 2015, who paid tribute to her husband while wishing him a ‘happy birthday.’ Ellen wrote on X,

“Happy Birthday to my wonderful Husband . Great soul. Whale watching !!Love, Ellie”

That same day, Ellen posted an image of herself and Burke alongside the U2 singer, Bono, while wishing her husband again, writing,

“Clem , Again Happy Birthday. I know Bono loves you !!”

Ellen is also a die-hard music fan, as is evident from her posts on X (then Twitter). She has paid tribute to legendary artists such as Prince, Merle Haggard, Dennis Davis, and Lemmy Kilmister in the past.

Ellen is also a supporter of her husband’s band, Blondie, regularly posting old publicity images of the band as well as current photographs of the band members on X.

As of the writing of this article, Ellen hasn’t posted an update on her husband’s passing away.

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Tributes pour in for Clem Burke

Clem Burke’s band, Blondie, celebrated Burke’s wide-ranging career in their statement announcing the drummer’s death. The statement released by Blondie read:

“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.”

Blondie’s post also highlighted Burke’s career outside of the band. They wrote,

“Clem’s influence extended far beyond Blondie. A self proclaimed “Rock & Roll survivalist”, he played and collaborated with numerous iconic artists, including Eurythmics, Ramones, Bob Dylan, Bob Geldof, Iggy Pop, Joan Jett, Nancy Sinatra, Chequered Past, The Fleshtones, The Romantics, Dramarama, The Adult Net, The Split Squad, The International Swingers, L.A.M.F., Empty Hearts, Slinky Vagabond, and even the Go-Go’s. His influence and contributions have spanned decades and genres, leaving an indelible mark on every project he was a part of.”

“Summer Wine” fame Nancy Sinatra, who also collaborated with Clem Burke, took to Instagram to pen a touching tribute to Burke after news of his death broke. She wrote,

“I was blessed to call him my friend. If I ever needed him, he was there. Always. Sending healing prayers and comfort to his widow, Ellen, his family, and all who loved him. Your life was beautiful, Clem, and I will never forget you or the times we shared. Your memory will live on in my heart and in the hearts of millions of fans around the world. Godspeed, dear friend. I love you.”

Punk artist Joan Jett also wrote on Instagram,

“So sad to hear of Clem’s passing. He was an awesome musician who was such a part of my early musical life. Rest in peace my friend.”

Clem Burke’s contribution to new wave and punk rock music is unparalleled, and he will be remembered for the intense fervor he brought to drumming.