Clarence Clemons, the larger-than-life saxophone player for the E Street Band who was one of the key influences in Bruce Springsteen's life and music through four decades, died Saturday night after being hospitalized about a week ago following a stroke at his home in Singer Island, FL. He was 69.
Known as the Big Man for his imposing 6-foot-5-inch, 270-plus pound frame, Clemons and his ever-present saxophone spent much of his life with The Boss, Bruce Springsteen and his E Street Band. His booming saxophone solos became a signature sound for the E Street Band on many key songs, including "Jungleland," a triumphant solo he spent 16 hours perfecting, and "Born To Run."
Last May, he performed with Lady Gaga on the season finale of "American Idol," and performed on two songs on her "Born This Way" album. Just this week, Lady Gaga's video with Clemons, "The Edge of Glory," debuted.
An original member — and the oldest member — of the E Street Band, Clemons also performed with the Grateful Dead, the Jerry Garcia Band, and Ringo Starr's All Star Band. He recorded with a wide range of artists including Aretha Franklin, Roy Orbison and Jackson Browne. He also had his own band called the Temple of Soul.
Farewell Big Man, you'll be missed. But the music in Heaven just keeps getting better.
Known as the Big Man for his imposing 6-foot-5-inch, 270-plus pound frame, Clemons and his ever-present saxophone spent much of his life with The Boss, Bruce Springsteen and his E Street Band. His booming saxophone solos became a signature sound for the E Street Band on many key songs, including "Jungleland," a triumphant solo he spent 16 hours perfecting, and "Born To Run."
Last May, he performed with Lady Gaga on the season finale of "American Idol," and performed on two songs on her "Born This Way" album. Just this week, Lady Gaga's video with Clemons, "The Edge of Glory," debuted.
An original member — and the oldest member — of the E Street Band, Clemons also performed with the Grateful Dead, the Jerry Garcia Band, and Ringo Starr's All Star Band. He recorded with a wide range of artists including Aretha Franklin, Roy Orbison and Jackson Browne. He also had his own band called the Temple of Soul.
Farewell Big Man, you'll be missed. But the music in Heaven just keeps getting better.
