Goodbye big man

American saxophonist Clarence Clemons passed away last Sunday in Florida, aged 69.

With the exception of Little Steven, The Big Man, as Clemons was commonly known, was possibly the most prominent member of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band, although he also released several solo albums and worked with many other artists throughout his career.

His talent knew neither bounds nor restrictions, and he was equally skilful regardless of the genre he was playing.

The list of artists Clemons has worked with is extensive, stretching from his 1970s work with Janis Ian, Southside Johnny and Dan Hartman through to guest spots with the likes of Aretha Franklin, Joan Armatrading, Luther Vandross, Ian Hunter, Twisted Sister, Grateful Dead, Ringo Starr and Zucchero. His most recent guest appearance was on Lady Gaga’s Born This Way album, which was released earlier this year.

Besides music, Clemons was also active in film and TV. He appeared in various movies, among them New York, New York, Blues Brothers 2000, Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure and Fatal Instinct. He also took on roles in various TV series, including Diff’rent Strokes, My Wife and Kids, The Sentinel, The Simpsons, ‘Til Death and The Wire.

Clemons had recently undergone two operations after suffering a stroke on June 12. Although he had shown signs of recovery in the days following the surgery, he suffered further complications following a second stroke on June 18.

Clemons published his autobiography, Big Man: Real Life and Tall Tales, in 2009.

In a comment published on the internet, Springsteen said, “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 honoured and thankful to have known him and had the opportunity to stand beside him for nearly 40 years.”

www.clarenceclemons.com