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The Other Side of the Dream: Explosive, intimate, unforgettable – the highly anticipated story of Blondie’s drummer and the punk scene that changed music forever, a must read for 2026
For anyone who loves music this is a backstage pass to a life lived fully as one of rock's greatest heroes.
Clem was not just a drummer; he was the heartbeat of Blondie.
His talent, energy, and passion for music were unmatched, and his contributions to our sound and success are immeasurable. Beyond his musicianship, Clem was a source of inspiration both on and off the stage. His vibrant spirit, infectious enthusiasm and rock solid work ethic touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him – Debbie Harry and Chris Stein.
Clem began writing The Other Side of the Dream more than 20 years ago, often setting it aside amid relentless touring and recording schedules. When cancer treatment and illness forced his retirement in 2024, completing the book became a priority.
As a founding member of Blondie, Clem went on to influence a wide number of musicians, effortlessly moving between genres, bands and countries. In The Other Side of the Dream, Clem Burke reflects on his extraordinary journey from the gritty streets of New York City to global superstardom. With candour and wit, he recounts the explosive punk scene that gave rise to Blondie, the creative partnerships that defined their music and the challenges of navigating fame in a constantly evolving industry.
It's a rock and roll memoir like no other.
Clem was not just a drummer; he was the heartbeat of Blondie.
His talent, energy, and passion for music were unmatched, and his contributions to our sound and success are immeasurable. Beyond his musicianship, Clem was a source of inspiration both on and off the stage. His vibrant spirit, infectious enthusiasm and rock solid work ethic touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him – Debbie Harry and Chris Stein.
Clem began writing The Other Side of the Dream more than 20 years ago, often setting it aside amid relentless touring and recording schedules. When cancer treatment and illness forced his retirement in 2024, completing the book became a priority.
As a founding member of Blondie, Clem went on to influence a wide number of musicians, effortlessly moving between genres, bands and countries. In The Other Side of the Dream, Clem Burke reflects on his extraordinary journey from the gritty streets of New York City to global superstardom. With candour and wit, he recounts the explosive punk scene that gave rise to Blondie, the creative partnerships that defined their music and the challenges of navigating fame in a constantly evolving industry.
It's a rock and roll memoir like no other.
355 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2026
About the author
Clem Burke
4 books1 followerClement Burke was an American musician best known as the drummer for the band Blondie from 1975, shortly after the band formed, throughout the band's entire career, and he appeared on all of the band’s albums, along with two founding members, Debbie Harry and Chris Stein. He also played drums for the Ramones for a brief time in 1987, under the name Elvis Ramone.
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