Clem Burke

Few, if any, American drummers to emerge from the New York punk/new wave scene that emerged from CBGB in the 1970s were as versatile, accomplished, and celebrated as Clem Burke. Best known for his long tenure with Blondie, Burke's confident style meshed well with the group's stylistic shape-shifting, and whether they were playing proto-punk, power pop, British Invasion-influenced rock, reggae, disco, funk, or hip-hop, Burke could rise to the occasion with power, imagination, and precision. Plenty of folks noticed his talent, and Burke accumulated an impressive resume as he laid down the beat for a dazzling variety of artists, among them Eurythmics, Iggy Pop, Pete Townshend, the Ramones, the Romantics, and even the Go-Go's. And while Burke never recorded a solo album, he joined some of his celebrated friends in groups like Chequered Past, the Empty Hearts, and the Split Squad.