Longtime Blondie drummer Clem Burke died April 6, 2025 at the age of 70 as a result of cancer.
Blondie band members spoke on Baker saying, “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.”
Born Clement Anthony Bozewski on November 24, 1954 in Bayonne, New Jersey; Baker got his start as a member of the school orchestra but suffered the universal complaint of playing too loud and was let go. But he found his niche when he answered an ad for a “freak energy rock drummer” in the 70’s for a band called Blondie. The rockers went on to sell over 40 million records and earn an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Best known as the drummer for Blondie, Burke also played drums for Nancy Sinatra, the Eurythmics, and the band Chequered Past.
He is survived by his wife of over 20 years Ellen.