Clarence Clemons

Credit: Sam Emerson/Polaris

Bruce Springsteen Says a Sad Goodbye to Clarence Clemons

Originally posted 06/19/2011 01:20PM

For Bruce Springsteen, a blinding light went dark.

The rocker paid tribute to his longtime friend and saxophonist Clarence Clemons, who died Saturday at age 69 from complications of a stroke.

"Clarence lived a wonderful life," Springsteen, 61, said on his Web site. "He carried within him a love of people that made them love him. He created a wondrous and extended family. He loved the saxophone, loved our fans and gave everything he had every night he stepped on stage."

Calling the loss of the E Street Band member "immeasurable," Springsteen gave thanks to have known the towering 6', 4" sideman he called The Big Man for nearly 40 years.

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Filed Under: Tributes, Bruce Springsteen, Clarence Clemons

Credit: Paul Emmans/Startraks

Clarence Clemons Dies After Suffering a Stroke

Originally posted 06/18/2011 09:30PM

Clarence Clemons, the longtime saxophonist in Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band, died Saturday of complications from a stroke. He was 69.

Known as The Big Man, the 6', 4" former college football player was a legendary sideman for the New Jersey-born rocker from the early 1970s, playing on such hits as "Born to Run" and "Thunder Road."

Clemons had dealt with a series of medical problems over the past decade, including having both knees replaced and spinal fusion surgery, but his health had seemed to be improving.

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Filed Under: Bruce Springsteen, Clarence Clemons

Credit: Paul Emmans/Startraks

Clarence Clemons Suffers a Stroke: Report

Originally posted 06/13/2011 09:50AM

Clarence Clemons, the legendary saxophonist and member of Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band, has suffered a stroke, according to multiple reports.

A source confirmed to the Associated Press that Clemons, 69, had the stroke but had no further information on his condition.

Springsteen's top fan site, meanwhile, posted a "miracles are happening" update on Clemons Monday. "His vital signs are improving. He's responsive. His eyes are welling up when we're talking to him. He was paralyzed on his left side, but now he's squeezing with his left hand," the post read. "The next five days will still be critical. But he's a fighter."

Clemons's nephew, Jake Clemons, also a saxophonist, updated his Facebook status on Monday to read: "Please do not lose Hope!"