Clarence Clemons was the engine of the E Street Band, his passing at the weekend sparked message of condolence from around the world. In short, Clarence was the visual manifestation of the words Bruce Springsteen wrote, and the backbone of the band.
 
The cover of Born to Run said more than any eulogy could; in an album about friendship, the cover screamed comradeship. A young Springsteen resting on the shoulders of Clemons, or The Big Man, as he was referred to in the lyrics of the songs and the hearts of the fans.
 
Clemons was a born rock and roll sax player; within his 6ft 5 frame was the power that gave the songs life and the pillars that held them up. He joined the band at the very start and was with it form the juke joints of Asbury Park through to Hyde Park, Glastonbury, the Giants Stadium and beyond.

Through the years Clarence played with the great and the good of Rock and Roll. From The Beatles and The Stones to Aretha Franklin and Jackson Browne, most recently adding his horn to Lady GaGa’s 'The Edge of Glory'. However, it will be his place at the heart of the E Street Band that he will be most well known for.
 
Clarence life changed in the midst of a thunder storm. In the Student Prince, a New Jersey club, Springsteen and his band were taking a break between sets. Clarence, who had heard from friends about the young singer, took his car and his horn out to meet him. Just as he got to the entrance thunder crashed around him and the door flew off its hinges. Left stood in the door frame, illuminated by lighting was The Big Man. He asked if he could play, they didn’t disagree and rest is history.



CLARENCE CLEMONS- 11/01/1942- 18/06/2011
 

Posted In Features, Jun 21 2011. Words - Chris Barrett