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Clement Anthony Bozewski, popularly known as Clement Burke or Clem Burke, was an American musician who played the drums for the band Blondie and, at one point, for Ramone.
Clem Burke began drumming as a teenager at New York clubs. At the age of 14, Burk performed at the Battle of the Bands held in Carnegie Hall with his band, The Total Environment. He was also one of the founding members of Bayonne, New Jersey's premier cover bands, the Sweet Willie Jam Band.
Clem Burke joined the band Blondie in 1985, shortly after its founding in 1984, and was a key figure in ensuring the band stayed together when the founders, Debby Harry and Chris Stein, were considering disbanding after their bassist, Fred Smith, left for television.
On Monday, April 7, 2025, it was announced that the drumming legend had passed away at the age of 70 after ‘a private battle with cancer.’
More details on Clem Burke's passing
Clem Burke, the drummer of the band Blondie, died on April 6, 2025. The Blondie family announced his death via their official social media accounts. The announcement shared via their official Instagram account was captioned:
“It is with profound sadness that we relay news of the passing of our beloved friend and bandmate Clem Burke following a private battle with cancer.
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.”
The tribute continued:
“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.”
“We extend our deepest condolences to Clem's family, friends, and fans around the world. His legacy will live on through the tremendous amount of music he created and the countless lives he touched. As we navigate this profound loss, we ask for privacy during this difficult time. Godspeed, Dr. Burke,” they added, signing off. “Debbie, Chris, and the entire Blondie family.”
During Blondie’s fifteen-year hiatus from 1982 to 1997, Clem Burke played the drums for the Romantics and recorded with the lineup of Chequered Past. In July 2011, the drumming legend was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Gloucestershire after taking part in an 8-year study that focused on the physical and psychological effects of drumming and the stamina required by professional drummers.
Read more: What happened to Clem Burke? Blondie drummer dies at 70
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Throughout his musical career, Clem Burke released 31 albums; this includes albums in which he was a band member or the featured drummer.
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