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Blondie announce the death of drummer Clem Burke

Blondie have announced the death of drummer Clem Burke.

The drummer has died aged 70 after a battle with cancer, the U.S. rock band announced on Monday.

In a tribute posted on Facebook, Blondie's Debbie Harry and Chris Stein wrote, "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," they continued. "His talent, energy, and passion for music were unmatched, and his contributions to our sound and success are immeasurable."

Elsewhere in the post, Harry and Stein praised Burke's "vibrant spirit" and "infectious enthusiasm".

"Beyond his musicianship, Clem was a source of inspiration both on and off the stage," they penned. "His vibrant spirit, infectious enthusiasm and rock solid work ethic touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Clem's influence extended far beyond Blondie."

Burke began his career playing in local bands in the late 60s and early 70s. He joined Blondie in 1975, shortly after Harry and Stein formed the band in New York City.

The iconic rock band disbanded in 1982 after the release of their sixth studio album, The Hunter. They later reformed in 1997 and continued to tour and make music.

Burke has also worked with bands including the Romantics, Dramarama, the Go-Go's and the Ramones.

The drummer, who was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2006, has also played with the likes of Joan Jett, Bob Dylan, Iggy Pop and Pete Townshend.

Photo: Cover Media
Source: Cover Media
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