The heartbreaking reason behind Blondie's split — and the famous musicians late Clem Burke joined instead

The members of Blondie are mourning the lack of one in every of their very own, with the passing of one of many band’s unique members, Clem Burke.

The drummer died from most cancers on April 6 on the age of 70. Clem was a member of the band from its first days, when it was fashioned by Debbie Harry and Chris Stein, and remained with them till the top.

Nonetheless, throughout their cut up, he was capable of finding success exterior of the band in lots of unbelievable methods. Check out what brought about Blondie’s notorious cut up, the musicians Clem labored with after, and his legacy now…

1976: American rock group Blondie (L-R: Gary Valentine, Clem Burke, Debbie Harry, Chris Stein and Jimmy Destri) pose for portrait to promote their debut album 'Blondie' in 1976 — Blondie fashioned in 1974 and was at its peak in 1980-81

Why did Blondie break up?

By 1980, Blondie was on the top of its fame, due to back-to-back quantity ones with songs like “Coronary heart of Glass,” “Name Me,” “The Tide is Excessive,” and “Rapture.”

Nonetheless, in 1982, the tides turned on their success. That yr’s launch, The Hunter, was not obtained properly each commercially and critically, particularly in comparison with their previous albums, which spawned a number of hits and have been worldwide prime 10 hits.

American punk rock band Blondie, 1979. From left to right, guitarist Frank Infante, guitarist Chris Stein, bass player Nigel Harrison, singer Debbie Harry, keyboard player Jimmy Destri and drummer Clem Burke — The group disbanded in 1982 following the dearth of success for “The Hunter”

The band additionally handled authorized proceedings with former bassist Frank Infante and low ticket gross sales for his or her North American tour (which ended up solely operating for one month). By the top of the yr, they introduced their disbandment.

Chris then revealed the next yr he had been identified with pemphigus vulgaris, a uncommon autoimmune situation. He was cared for by Debbie, his then companion, who pursued a solo profession as properly.

Clem Burke’s impartial pursuits

After the band introduced their break up, Clem was capable of rapidly discover work as a periods and stage drummer for a number of well-liked acts on the time.

Kathy Valentine of The Go-Go's and Clem Burke of Blondie out on a date — Clem labored with a number of well-liked artists, together with Kathy Valentine of The Go-Go’s, who he additionally dated

He served as a daily drummer for the Romantics and the Ramones, whereas additionally performing usually with the likes of Pete Townshend, Bob Dylan, the Eurythmics, Dramarama, the Flesh Tones, Iggy Pop, Joan Jett, and even former Blondie bandmate Nigel Harrison.

By the mid-Nineties, nonetheless, Blondie’s work skilled a resurgence in recognition due to recognition from bands like Rubbish and No Doubt, and by 1996, Debbie and Chris have been calling for the band’s reunion. They reunited in 1997 and put out their first album since The Hunter, No Exit, in 1999.

What has the band mentioned about Clem’s passing?

He returned to the band in 1997 and remained with them until his death — He returned to the band in 1997 and remained with them till his loss of life

The band’s official social media web page shared a press release saying Clem’s passing, on behalf of Debbie and Chris, which learn: “It’s with profound unhappiness that we relay information of the passing of our beloved good friend and bandmate Clem Burke following a personal battle with most cancers.”

“Clem was not only a drummer; he was the heartbeat of Blondie. His expertise, power, and fervour for music have been unmatched, and his contributions to our sound and success are immeasurable,” it continued.

Clem Burke attends the "Dog Day" Afternoon Launch Event at The 100 Club on March 07, 2023 in London, England — “Clem was not only a drummer; he was the heartbeat of Blondie.”

“We prolong our deepest condolences to Clem’s household, mates, and followers around the globe. His legacy will stay on via the large quantity of music he created and the numerous lives he touched. As we navigate this profound loss, we ask for privateness throughout this troublesome time. Godspeed, Dr. Burke,” it tenderly concluded.

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