Clarence Clemons, Springsteen's saxophonist, dies at 69 after June 12th stroke

Clarence "Big Man" Clemons, who played saxophone in Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band for more than 40 years has died following a stroke June 12th and two subsequent brain surgeries.

Springsteen's statement:

Neil Preston

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 honored and thankful to have known him and had the oppurtunity to stand beside him for nearly forty years. He was my great friend, my partner and with Clarence at my side, my band and I were able to tell a story far deeper than those simply contained in our music. His life, his memory, and his love will live on in that story and in our band.

During his 80s Born In The USA tour, Springsteen had a schtick in which he would take a run at Clemons from across the stage, drop to his knees, and slide into a big kiss, as seen in the picture above. AKSARBENT, from a 5th row seat, witnessed this perfectly-executed move and was amazed that neither man knocked his teeth out.