Finding influence from legendary drummers like Earl Palmer, Keith Moon, and Ringo Starr, Clem Burke sought to leave his mark on the drums. Joining Blondie during the 1970s, Burke stayed with the band throughout their entire career. While he played for other groups like the Ramones, his time with Blondie solidified his spot in punk rock history. Sadly, while battling cancer, Burke passed away on April 6th at 70 years old. With singers and fellow musicians taking a moment to remember Burke, the Sex Pistols dedicated their recent show to not only the drummer but to “an amazing man and friend.”
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Just two days after Burke passed away, the Sex Pistols walked on stage in Sydney, Australia on April 8th. With the crowd excited to see the band, Gallows musician Frank Carter took a moment to celebrate Burke’s legacy. Before kicking off the show, he said, “Very quickly I just want to take a moment to dedicate this show to an amazing man, and a friend of the lads, Clem Burke. An incredible drummer, who sadly passed away yesterday. So tonight is for Clem and it’s for friendship.”
Glen Matlock Shared Touching Tribute To Clem Burke
While many within the punk rock scene knew about Burke, the drummer remained close to members of the Sex Pistols. During the early 1980s, the musician played alongside Steve Jones in the group Chequered Past. And in 2011, he joined forces with Glen Matlock to help form the International Swingers. Just a few years ago, Matlock even took the stage with Blondie, helping them with their tour.
Outside of dedicating the show to Burke, Matlock also posted a picture of the two on Instagram. Heartbroken over the news, he wrote, “Such a sad news couple of days. What a drummer, what a friend, what a guy. Will miss you big time mate.”
Fans also took a moment to remember Burke, recounting his contributions to rock music. “Yes. Absolutely. A great drummer. A lovely genuine guy. A friend who always made time for me. A sad day..” Another person continued, “Saw you together in Leeds a couple of years ago. He was like a nuclear-powered threshing machine. Amazing.”
