Clem Burke, Iconic Punk Rock and New Wave Drummer for Blondie, Has Died


Clem Burke, the drummer for Blondie, has died after a private battle with cancer. He was just 70 years old. Debbie Harry and guitarist Chris Stein of Blondie announced Burke’s death on social media on Monday. “It is with profound sadness that we relay news of the passing of our beloved friend and bandmate Clem Burke following a private battle with cancer,” Harry, 79, and Stein, 75, said in a statement on the official Blondie instagram page. “Clem was not just a drummer. He was the heartbeat of Blondie,” they continued. “His talent, energy, and passion for music were unmatched, and his contributions to our sound and success are immeasurable.” In addition to Blondie, Burke Burke briefly played the drums for Ramones in 1987. He also played with music legends such as David Bowie, Bob Dylan Eurythmics, Ramones, Bob Dylan, Bob Geldof, Iggy Pop, Joan Jett, Chequered Past, the Fleshtones, the Romantics, Dramarama, the Adult Net, the Split Squad, the International Swingers, L.A.M.F., Empty Hearts, Slinky Vagabond and the Go-Go’s. many rockers took to social media to pay tribute to him. RIP Clem. Continue reading


Firewind Shares a Cover of “Talking In Your Sleep” by The Romantics, On Tour Now with Sonata Arctica and Serious Black



Following their latest album, Stand United (March 2024 – AFM Records), power metal titans Firewind have kicked off their European tour with Sonata Arctica, Serious Black and Tungsten. In December, they also join forces with label mates Masterplan. In conjunction with this live assault, the band, wth iconic guitarist Gus G, have shared a music video for their version of 80s pop rock classic, “Talking in Your Sleep,” originally recorded by The Romantics. Check it out below, alongside live listings and more.
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EXCLUSIVE ALBUM PREMIERE – Mike Skill Releases “Skill…Mike Skill” Solo Album


Today is the day! Legendary Classic Rock artist, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Mike Skill, best known as a co-founding member of The Romantics for the past four decades, has released his debut solo album. Skill…Mike Skill, today – Friday, October 8, 2021st, and you can stream it here at Ghost Cult! Skill’s new album consists of 11 original songs penned by Skill as well as the rocker’s recent remake of “What I Like About You,” which Skill co-wrote with Romantics bandmate Jimmy Marinos in 1979. The album features Skill on lead and backup vocals, lead guitar, rhythm guitar and bass along with Brad Elvis (current member of The Romantics) and Kevin Rankin (A Flock of Seagulls) on drums. Also featured are Mc5’s Wayne Kramer on “‘67 Riot,” Ricky Rat on guitar, Chloe F. Orwell on guest vocals and Patrick Harwood on harmonica. Jam out to “Skill…Mike Skill” right now!

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EXCLUSIVE PREMIERE: Mike Skill (The Romantics) – “So Soul Alone”


 

Most people know Mike Skill as the guitarist and co-founder of The Romantics and their major hits “What I Like About You” and “Talking In Your Sleep.” Mike is taking these hallmarks from his successful career, buoyed by his slick songcraft, penchant for musical storytelling,  and his distinctive,  voice on the guitar, but also as a singer and is releasing his debut full-length, self-titled solo album later this year. Check out his brand new single “So Soul Alone,” a fun throwback track with a great vibe and hook, here at Ghost Cult. 

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