582 – Clem Burke (Blondie): A Lifetime of Rock & Roll

Like many teenagers, Clem Burke wanted to be a Rock Star when he grew up. The difference is, he actually did it.

Joining the newly-formed group Blondie in 1975, Burke jumped on a speeding train that took off like a rocket ship, making Blondie of the most successful bands in the world. That success lead to millions of records sold, tours all around the world an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and that’s just scratching the service.

Throughout his career, Clem has built relationships around the world resulting in his befriending Hal Blaine and Earl Palmer as well as working with The Ramones, Pete Townshend, Bob Dylan, Eurythmics, Dramarama, the Fleshtones, Iggy Pop, and Joan Jett, amongst others.  His band The Empty Hearts with Elliot Easton (The Cars), Wally Palmar (The Romantics) and Andy Babiuk (The Chesterfield Kings) recently released The Second Album on Little Steven’s Wicked Cool Records.

If one thing is for certain, Clem is living proof that if you have a dream and are determined to achieve it, anything is possible.

Clems full Wikipedia page

Clem Burke talks about:

• Growing up in Bayonne, New Jersey and being right by the New York City music scene as a kid
• His first experience recording as a teenager in a band
• Playing Carnegie Hall at age 14
• The opportunities he’s had by living in L.A.
• Legendary artists he’s worked with
• His upcoming album with The Empty Hearts

Resources/Links mentioned:

• Follow Clem’s: Twitter
• The Empty Hearts: The Second Album