Blondie announced on April 7, 2025, that drummer Clem Burke had died following a private battle with cancer. The band did not disclose the type of cancer or other medical details. Burke was 70; his reported date of death was April 6, 2025.
What is known about Clem Burke’s death
Blondie’s announcement said Burke died “following a private battle with cancer.” The statement, signed by Debbie Harry, Chris Stein and the entire Blondie family, did not identify a cancer type, diagnosis date or treatment. The Associated Press also reported that the band gave no further medical details. Blondie’s announcement and the Associated Press report are the public sources for what was disclosed.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Blondie - Greatest Hits | $7.98 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
The Best of Blondie | $19.78 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Blondie Greatest Hits CD 19 Tracks | $15.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
The Best of Blondie | $10.16 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
![Blondie 4(0)-Ever: Greatest Hits Deluxe Redux / Ghosts of Download / [2CD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61UBDv2iOgL._SL160_.jpg)
|
Blondie 4(0)-Ever: Greatest Hits Deluxe Redux / Ghosts of Download / [2CD] | $16.39 | Buy on Amazon |
The Guardian obituary gives Burke’s dates as November 24, 1954, to April 6, 2025; the AP reported that he was 70. April 7 is the date Blondie announced his death, not the reported date he died. The Guardian obituary provides the death date and lifespan.
Burke’s place in Blondie
Burke joined Blondie in its early years in the mid-1970s, played through the group’s 1982 breakup, and returned when it re-formed in 1997. He remained the band’s drummer until his death. The Guardian described his playing as the backbone of Blondie’s singles and live performances.
#1 Best Overall
- BLONDIE
- R&P INTERNATIONAL
- INTERNATIONAL
- MUSIC
Blondie’s tribute called him “the heartbeat of Blondie” and praised his talent, energy and contribution to the group’s sound and success. These are the band’s words, rather than a separate assessment by an individual member.
Music and collaborations beyond Blondie
Burke’s work extended beyond the band. Blondie’s announcement names collaborations with Eurythmics, the Ramones, Bob Dylan, Bob Geldof, Iggy Pop and Joan Jett. The Guardian also notes work with Pete Townshend, Johnny Thunders and the Go-Go’s, among others. He filled in for the Ramones at two live performances under the name Elvis Ramone.
Rank #2
Blondie’s album Parallel Lines, released in 1978, is a notable entry point for revisiting Burke’s playing. The Guardian identifies four worldwide hits from the album: “Picture This,” “Sunday Girl,” “Heart of Glass” and “Hanging on the Telephone.” The Guardian obituary covers the album and Burke’s career.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #4
Rank #3
- 19 CLASSIC TRACKS: This CD compilation features 19 of Blondie's most iconic songs spanning their legendary career.
- ICONIC HITS INCLUDED: Features fan favorites such as Heart of Glass, Call Me, Rapture, One Way or Another, The Tide Is High, and many more.
- GENRE-SPANNING MUSIC: Showcases Blondie's unique blend of new wave, punk, pop, and disco across nearly two decades of chart-topping music.
- PERFECT COLLECTION: An ideal introduction for new listeners and a must-have for longtime fans looking to own the band's most celebrated songs in one place.
- FORMAT AND RELEASE: Available on CD, originally released on October 1, 2002, and arrives in a standard jewel case ready to play.
Career milestones and recognition
- Blondie’s original members, including Burke, were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2006, according to the AP.
- The AP reported that Blondie’s website credited the band with more than 42 million records sold; that figure is attributed to the band and was not independently audited in the AP report.
- The Guardian reported Burke ranked 61st in Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 best rock drummers. This is a published ranking, not a measurement of his playing.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
