Sunday, April 13, 2025

R.I.P. VA - CLEM BURKE (A Butterboy Compilation) (4 x CDs)

R.I.P.

VA - CLEM BURKE (A Butterboy Compilation) (4 x CDs)

Clem Burke, born Clement Anthony Bozewski on November 24, 1954, in Bayonne, New Jersey, was an extraordinary drummer whose name became synonymous with energy, versatility, and passion. Renowned for his ability to adapt across genres and collaborate with music legends, Burke’s career serves as a shining testament to dedication and artistry.

At age 18 drummer Clem Burke was a co-founding member of the group Blondie along with Chris Stein and Debbie Harry. Burke remained with the band throughout the first stage of their career and was instrumental in the late '90s reunion. While Blondie remains his most celebrated association, Burke’s genius extended far beyond the boundaries of the new wave and punk rock sound that the band revolutionized. 

Over the years, Burke collaborated with various iconic bands and artists, leaving an indelible mark on their music. Clem Burke significant contributions to the Eurythmics' music. He first worked with the band on their debut album, In the Garden (1981), recorded in Germany with producer Conny Plank. Burke’s drumming added depth to the tracks. He later collaborated with the Eurythmics on their fifth album, Revenge (1986), which included the Grammy-winning single "Missionary Man." His rock-steady beats and dynamic style were integral to the album's success.

In 1983, he joined the supergroup Chequered Past, contributing his unmistakable drumming to their self-titled album. Chequered Past united musicians such as Steve Jones (Sex Pistols), Michael Des Barres, Nigel Harrison, and Tony Fox Sales. Burke’s ability to seamlessly complement their styles showcased his adaptability.

In 1993, Burke recorded with Dramarama for their album Hi-Fi Sci-Fi, demonstrating his knack for propelling alternative rock with rhythmic precision. He also joined The Romantics, where he became their drummer from 1990 to 2004, playing on albums like Made in Detroit (1993) and 61/49 (2003). His spirited performances solidified the band's rock essence while proving his ability to invigorate a sound with his signature drumming.

Burke’s contributions during the 2010s further cemented his status as one of music’s most versatile drummers. He played with The Split Squad and lent his skills to their debut album, Now Hear This... (2014), blending rock and power pop with effortless artistry. That same year, his gothabilly stylings graced The 69 Cats’ album Transylvanian Tapes. Later, his performances on L.A.M.F. Live At The Bowery Electric (2017) paid tribute to Johnny Thunders and the Heartbreakers, showcasing Burke’s unyielding drive to honor punk music’s pioneers.

Beyond his studio work, Clem Burke was a consummate performer, collaborating with legends like Pete Townshend, Bob Dylan, and Iggy Pop. Clem Burke collaborated with Nancy Sinatra on her band K.A.B., contributing his drumming talents to their performances and recordings. While specific tracks or albums from this collaboration are not widely documented, Nancy Sinatra herself expressed deep admiration for Burke's work and friendship, highlighting his impact on her music and their shared creative journey.

His dynamic beats and creative fills elevated every piece of music he touched. Burke was not just a drummer but a storyteller, weaving his unique energy into every rhythm. Clem Burke's career exemplifies artistic integrity and versatility. Whether driving the rebellious spirit of punk, amplifying rock anthems, or innovating new sonic landscapes, Burke's contributions to music will forever resonate as a testament to his brilliance. A maestro behind the drum kit, Burke remains an inspiration to generations of musicians and fans alike.

Clem Burke's legacy as a drummer is unparalleled. His contributions to music continue to inspire generations, cementing his place as one of the greatest drummers in rock history.

Following on from K's excellent Clem Post earlier this week, I am pleased to present a remarkable collection: 93 tracks spread across 4 CDs that showcase the unparalleled talent and enduring legacy of Clem Burke, a true drumming virtuoso. This compilation is a testament to his influential career, highlighting his dynamic range, precision, and unmistakable energy behind the drum kit. Each CD offers a unique journey through the rhythm and beats that define Clem’s exceptional contributions to music. From his iconic work with Blondie to his collaborations with other artists, these tracks are a celebration of his artistry and the indelible mark he has left on the world of rock and beyond. (B)


A wonderful tribute to him can be found here: 

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16LgDmsAqy/?mibextid=wwXIfr

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Track lists

CD1

01 Blondie - X Offender (Original 1976 Private Stock 7" Single Version) 3:14 1976

02 Blondie - Denis (Original 1978 7" Single Version) 2:15 1978

03 Blondie - (I'm Always Touched by Your) Presence, Dear 2:43 1978

04 Blondie - Hanging on the Telephone 2:21 1978

05 Blondie - One Way or Another 3:35 1978

06 Blondie - Picture This 2:56 1978

07 Blondie - Fade Away and Radiate 4:02 1978

08 Blondie - Heart of Glass 4:33 1979

09 Blondie - Dreaming 3:06 1979

10 Blondie - The Hardest Part 3:42 1979

11 Blondie - Union City Blue 3:20 1979

12 Blondie - Die Young Stay Pretty 3:35 1979

13 Blondie - Atomic 4:40 1980

14 Blondie - Call Me 3:32 1980

15 Blondie - Rapture 5:37 1980

16 Blondie - T-Birds 3:57 1980

17 Blondie - Walk Like Me 3:45 1980

18 Blondie - Doom Or Destiny 2:54 2017

19 Blondie - Long Time 4:35 2017

20 Blondie - My Monster 3:28 2017

21 Blondie - Best Day Ever 3:57 2017

22 Blondie - Love Level 4:19 2017


CD2

23 Adult Net - Honey Tangle 3:37 1989

24 Adult Net - August 4:09 1989

25 Adult Net - Take Me 3:56 1989

26 Adult Net - Waking Up in The Sun 3:51 1989

27 Bp Fallon & The Bandits - Does Anyone Care What Anyone Says in Rock'n'roll 2:40 2013

28 Bp Fallon & The Bandits - Cold Chills 2:49 2013

29 Bp Fallon & The Bandits - The War to Fight for Love 4:12 2013

30 Carla Olson - All I Needed Was You 5:22 2013

31 Chequered Past - A World Gone Wild 4:50 1984

32 Chequered Past - Only The Strong (Will Survive) 3:57 1984

33 Delphines - Outskirts of Living 3:40 1997

34 Dramarama - Work for Food 4:09 1993

35 Dramarama - Bad Seed 4:01 1993

36 Dramarama - Haven't Got A Clue 4:02 1993

37 Empty Hearts - Run and Hide From You 3:04 2019

38 Empty Hearts Featuring Ringo Starr - Remember Days Like These 2:40 2020

39 Empty Hearts - Coat-Tailer 3:06 2020

40 Eurythmics - English Summer 4:03 1981

41 Eurythmics - Your Time Will Come 4:34 1981

42 Eurythmics - Caveman Head 3:58 1981

43 Eurythmics - Missionary Man 4:29 1986

44 Iggy Pop - The Villagers 3:54 1982

45 Iggy Pop - Run Like A Villain 3:00 1982


CD3

46 International Swingers - Live Wire 3:37 2015

47 International Swingers - Out of Control 3:14 2015

48 International Swingers - Gun Control 3:42 2015

49 International Swingers - FBI 3:57 2015

50 International Swingers - Running Man 4:08 2015

51 Jimmy Destri - Bad Dreams 3:19 1981

52 Jimmy Destri - Heart on A Wall 2:43 1981

53 Jimmy Destri - Little Metal Drummer 6:27 1981

54 Jimmy Destri - Under The Ice 4:03 1981

55 Magic Christian - Tomorrow Never Comes 4:43 2008

56 Magic Christian - Too Close to Zero 4:20 2009

57 Magic Christian - Turn Up The Heat 4:14 2008

58 Mark Owen - Child 3:46 1996

59 Mark Owen - Clementine 4:10 1996

60 Mark Owen - Green Man 5:40 1996

61 Mark Owen - I Am What I Am 3:16 1996

62 Mark Owen - Move On 4:20 1996

63 Miss Derringer - Better Run Away From Me 2:37 2006

64 Miss Derringer - Death Car Ride 3:44 2006

65 Pete Townshend - Brilliant Blues 3:06 1985

66 Pete Townshend - Secondhand Love 4:13 1985

67 Plimsouls - O'clock Midnight 5:32 1997

68 Plimsouls - Playing With Jack 3:09 1997

69 Plimsouls - Pile Up 3:26 1997


CD4

70 Romantics - You and Your Folks 3:11 1993

71 Romantics - Love it Up 3:17 1993

72 Romantics - I Wanna Know 3:41 1993

73 Romantics - Leave Her Alone 3:33 1993

74 Romantics - I Need You 2:29 2003

75 Romantics - Paint The Sky 4:37 2003

76 69 Cats - Necromance for Guitar 4:03 2014

77 69 Cats & Wanda Jackson - She's Not You 2:43 2014

78 69 Cats - Runaway 2:27 2014

79 69 Cats - 69 Guitars 2:55 2014

80 Split Squad - Feel The Same About You 3:04 2014

81 Split Squad - Now Hear This 3:44 2014

82 Split Squad - Touch & Go 3:17 2014

83 Split Squad - Messin' Around 4:31 2014

84 Lure Burke Stinson and Kramer - Can't Keep My Eyes on You (Live) 5:18 2017

85 Lure Burke Stinson and Kramer - One Track Mind (Live) 2:35 2017

86 Lure Burke Stinson and Kramer; Cheetah Chrome - Goin' Steady (Live) (feat. Cheetah Chrome) 2:53 2017

87 Lure Burke Stinson and Kramer; Cheetah Chrome - Pirate Love (Live) (feat. Cheetah Chrome) 4:01 2017

88 Lure Burke Stinson and Kramer; Jesse Malin - It's Not Enough (Live) (feat. Jesse Malin) 3:15 2017

89 Bob Dylan - Under Your Spell 3:56 1986

90 Grabs - Say Yes 2:50 2010

91 Grabs - Come Back 4:10 2010

92 Grabs - Political Disco 3:03 2010

93 Coolies with Kathy Valentine and Clem Burke - King of Confusion 3:02 2023

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Music weaves itself into the fabric of our emotions, dances through the corridors of memory, and whispers to the soul of who we are. Sharing these stories deepens the connection, turning the experience into something timeless and profound.

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11 comments:

  1. How did I not know that Burke played with Adult Net? I am a big Brix Smith fan and just had no idea. Must have gone in one ear and out the other without even rattling inside. Wow

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Pol.
      Clem Burke’s stint with The Adult Net is one of those fascinating musical connections that can easily slip under the radar. The band, led by Brix Smith, had such a unique lineup over the years, and Clem’s involvement added a whole new layer of rhythm and energy. I wonder how many incredible collaborations happen in the music world that we only stumble upon later. This feels like a hidden gem you’ve just uncovered.
      Wikipedia list his collaborations - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clem_Burke
      Cheers.

      Delete
  2. Thanks so much for all your great music
    Any chance of a re-upload of The Animals EP collection ??

    ReplyDelete
  3. Most amazing ... the man, this collection! And, yes, the Brix connection is a true highlight, hitherto unknown to me as well (being a Fall & ME+B Smith's fan till the grave). True thanks & Best, TC

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, TC.
      It is sad that we look closer at his legacy after death.
      Cheers.

      Delete
  4. Thanks so much - an awesome tribute to an awesome musician.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, heartsofstone.
      Truly appreciated.
      Cheers.

      Delete
  5. Replies
    1. Hi D.
      As I said to TC (above) It is sad that we look closer at his legacy after death.
      Cheers.

      Delete
  6. Wow, I didn't know on how many digfferent projects worked.

    Also, good job of including a number of selections from Mark Owens' Green Man, a really credible, slightly psychedelic Brit pop album, that gets a bad rep 'cause Owens was 'the cute one' in Take That, but his debut easily beat out Gary Barlow's boring platter (can't quite touch Robbie Williams' debut), but considering that Take That were mainly a vehicle for Barlow, it's interesting that two of "the other guys" stole his thunder...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi One Buck Guy.
      Thanks for pointing that out! Mark Owens' Green Man truly deserves recognition. It’s a fascinating album with its slightly psychedelic Britpop vibe elevated by Clem Burke's drumming. It's a shame it often gets overlooked due to preconceived notions about Owens' role in Take That. Great call on highlighting this gem.
      Cheers.

      Delete