While the E Street Band made a virtual brand-name out of each of the group's musicians for their respective instrument, Clemons was an obvious go-to for Springsteen, who affectionately referred to him as "Big Man" from the stage, especially when calling out for one of Clemons' jubilant sax solos, which punctuated Springsteen's blue-collar rock 'n' roll in a way that nothing else could.
"Clarence lived a wonderful life," states Springsteen. "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 opportunity 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."
