Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band Legend Clarence Clemons Dies At 69

The Big Man of the E Street Band speaks out on music, the glory days and his intense connection with Bruce Springsteen.There is sad news today in the music world, Clarence Clemons,the big man on the sax of the E Street band has passed away at the age of 69 due to complications from a stroke.Thesaxophone player fell ill at his Florida home last Sunday and later underwent two brain surgeries. According to accounts, his situation appeared to be looking up Monday; however, sadly last week his situation took a turn for the worse. Clemons played with the Boss, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band since 1971.The New York Times said Clemons' death was confirmed by a spokeswoman for Springsteen. Reuters could not immediately confirm the reports.Clemons started playing with Springsteen in 1971, and had notable solos on such tunes as "Born to Run," "Thunder Road" and "Badlands." He was dubbed "Big Man," which was also the title of a 2009 memoir he co-wrote with Don Reo.



A beautiful fit for a group that was about to make the leap from a corner of Asbury Park onto a national stage, Clemons helped to send “Born to Run” through the roof. His left shoulder landed a spot on that iconic album cover, supporting Springsteen’s weight.“It’s an invitation,” Springsteen said on an episode of VH1’s “Storytellers.” “The opening of ‘Born to Run,’ that was my big invitation. That big album where it used to fold out with me and Clarence smiling on it — that was the invitation card. We invite you to … something. We’re not sure what yet. The music sounds important. The beginning sounds like an invitation.”