“When the change was made uptown
And the Big Man joined the band
From the coastline to the city
All the little pretties raise their hands”
— Tenth Avenue Freeze Out
On Saturday night, all grew a bit quieter on E Street.
Clarence Clemons, the one and only Big Man, died after complications from a stroke, and for Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band fans across the world, the news hit hard. I watched friends tear up, and I read accounts on Facebook about others coming to terms with the death of the fantastic E Street saxophone player.
Photo by Danny Clinic, used from BruceSpringsteen.net
Despite being 69 years old, Clarence’s death still comes as a shock. I guess we tend to think our favorite musicians will live forever. Fortunately, his music will. Today, as fans everywhere are no doubt listening to the sax solo on “Jungleland” (arguably the greatest three minutes of music ever recorded by the E Street Band), I share with you this track about long-time friends.
RIP, Big Man. Thanks for the memories.
had no idea….you should have texted this! you are right, great musician!
It always saddens me when great artists pass away.
Michael Jackson. Let’s set aside his private life. He was one heck of an entertainer, and not only that, he composed his own songs. Music did flow in his veins.
John Lennon. What else can I say?