Clem Burke(1954-2025)
- Actor
- Producer
- Music Department
Drummer Clem Burke was born Clement Anthony Bozewski on November 24,
1954 in Bayonne, New Jersey. Burke first became involved in the rock
music scene after he met guitarist Steve Jones at various rock hangouts
in London, England in the mid 70s. In 1975 Clem joined the hugely
popular, successful, and innovative New Wave rock group Blondie and
remained a member of the band until Blondie broke up in the early 80s.
He later played an instrumental part in the late 90s reunion of
Blondie. Burke was the drummer for the group Chequered Past from 1982
to 1984. Moreover, Clem was the drummer for the Eurythmics throughout
the 80s; he's featured on three albums by the Eurythmics and appeared
as part of the band at the Free Nelson Mandela concert in 1988. Among
the other music artists Burke has worked with throughout the years are
Pete Townsend, Bob Dylan, Iggy Pop, Joan Jett, the Romantics, Wanda
Jackson, Johnny Thunders, the Plimsouls, and Dramarama. In 1987 Clem
played two concert gigs for the Ramones. He toured and recorded with
Nancy Sinatra from 2004 to 2005. In addition, Burke also played drums
on Kathy Valentine's debut solo album "Light Years" in 2005. In 2006 he
was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame along with the rest of
Blondie. More recently Clem has played drums for the groups Slinky
Vagabond, Magic Christian, and the Hugh Cornwell Band.
