Back in 1986 my best friend told me the only thing she wanted as a birthday present was to see Bruce Springsteen in concert. I did not like his voice but since this is all she wanted, and being young with money to burn I bought us two concert seats.
The concert was one of the greatest experiences of my life. Turns out the E Street band rocks the house! After this concert I rushed out and bought a tape of each album. (Yes we still listened to tapes back then). Clarence Clemons stole the show; with a stage presence that commanded attention. He showed the audience how hot and sexy a sax player can be. It was obvious to me Clemons was the heart and soul of the band. Today we lost a great musical talent.
I was lucky enough to see him twice, one during the famous Born in the USA tour and during the horrid Tunnel of Love tour. This was the tour when Springsteen was cheating on his wife with his then band mate, now wife, Patty. During the concert Springsteen and Patty made it clear they were an item. I give the band credit for trying to put on a decent show while the two lovers made asses of themselves. My eyes kept moving to Clemons, as his energy and stamina remind high throughout the 3 hour long concert. My respect for him grew while my dislike of Springsteen rushed back. After this show I stopped listening to him, while following Clemons career as he moved to new avenues and played with various artists. It was always a joy to hear him, whether he jammed with jazz greats or played with pop stars. He just recently played with Lady Gaga. I found this old video of him and Jackson Brown. The sound quality is not great, but is it is a fitting tribute to his gentle soul. Everyone who met him said he was a wonderful and man and loyal friend. No one plays the sax like Clemons. R.I.P. Big Man, heaven has managed to book the best!
The View From Sari's World 