Saxophone great, Clarence Clemons has passed away on June 18, 2011 from stroke-related complications in Florida. He leaves behind a music legacy that has spanned generations (new & old, alike), including his 40-year run with 'The Boss' Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band. Clemons didn't just rely on his musical gift alone but he also lent his acting talents as well, featured on TV and even movies such as 'New York, New York' and 'Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure.' He was also a philanthropist reaching out to charities and fundraisers. In his life, he's come to appreciate everything, including happiness. It's got him through tougher times especially when he had to face numerous bouts regarding his health. Despite everything, he kept everything positive.
Clemons remained active during his last years performing with the E Street Band and having a cameo in Lady Ga Ga's new video "Edge Of Glory" in which he performs the sax in that track. Lady Ga Ga has said previously in an MTV documentary that Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band was her musical influence during her childhood.
He leaves behind four sons: He fathered four sons, Clarence III, Charles, Christopher and Jarod.
I have personally watched Bruce Springsteen's videos on MTV 25+ years ago as a child and I can never seem to separate him and the band. They are all the best of friends. They needed each other and he's hung onto them right to the very end. He personified greatness, became a mainstream icon to most of us, and was beloved by all walks of life. This man most certainly deserves to be praised for what he's unselfishly given to the world. There is only one Clarence Clemons. I'm glad to have been a part of the listening ears for years that have come to appreciate his sounds. He will definitely be missed.
Bruce Springsteen's statement reads: "Clarence lived a wonderful life. 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. His loss is immeasurable and we are honored and thankful to have known him and had the opportunity to stand beside him for nearly forty years. He was my great friend, my partner and with Clarence at my side, my band and I were able to tell a story far deeper than those simply contained in our music. His life, his memory, and his love will live on in that story and in our band."
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