Bruce Springsteen's Saxman Clarence Clemon dead at 69

Clarence Clemons during a performance in February of 2009

Story by VOA news
Background from Wikipedia

Photo by Reuters

Clarence Anicholas Clemons Jr., star saxophonist of Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band, died Saturday, six days after suffering a stroke following surgery. Clemons was 69.

His bandleader, Springsteen, announced on his website Clemons' loss was "immeasurable." Springsteen said "we are honored and thankful to have known him and had the opportunity to stand beside him for nearly 40 years."

Clemons died at his home in the southern U.S. state of Florida. His health had been fragile in recent years after the musician underwent hip and knee surgeries.

Clemons' powerful raw style was featured on many hits by Springsteen, including "Jungleland" and "Born to Run."

Clemons last appeared with Springsteen and his longtime band in December.

Clemons is the second E Street Band member to die. Longtime keyboard player Danny Federici died of cancer nearly three years ago at the age of 58.

Background information

Born: January 11, 1942 in Norfolk, Virginia

Died: June 18, 2011 at age 69 in Palm Beach, Florida

Genres: Rock and R&B

Instruments: Saxophone, percussion, and vocalist

Associated Acts: Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band, Aretha Franklin, Jackson Browne, Narada Michael Walden, Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band, Aja Kim, and Lady Gaga.

Website: http://www.clarenceclemons.com/