Clarence Clemons: Master of the Universe
Posted by Matt on June 21, 2011
When I heard about Clarence Clemons’ passing on Saturday night, I was hit by an overwhelming wave of sadness. I’ve been a big fan of Bruce and E-Street band since my first show in 2003 and it is hard to believe eight years has gone by since my first time seeing Scooter and Big Man bust the city in half. It’s difficult to believe that I will not be able to see Clarence perform in person again. He was truly a larger than life character that loved the spotlight (who but C could play Fidel Castro in billiards, beat him, and the gall to write about it!). I was amazed at his ability to mesmerize a crowd with a solo and bring them all to cheers with few words (e.g., simply saying “Baby’s back” in Thundercrack brought a rousing ovation). His performance and persona brought an energy to Bruce’s his songs and concerts not otherwise accomplished by other members of the band. An E-Street concert was never complete until Bruce gave his elaborate introduction to the Big Man (THE SOPHOCLES OF SAXOPHONE…DO I HAVE TO SAY HIS NAME?!?!)..and I admittedly skip through songs just to hear those parts. I never had the opportunity to meet Clarence but listening to the stories over the years from other fans, no one seem to have a bad encounter with him. The personality matched the smile.
On Sunday, while flying 40,000 feet in the air somewhere between New York and Atlanta, already in a somber mood from the end of a wonderful weekend in New York, I decided to go through my iPod and see which songs I consider to be my “all-time favorite Clarence songs.” Now, when I say Clarence songs, these are only E-Street band songs (no solo releases) that are either Clarence-laden or include a Clarence solo. To me, Clarence’s part either stole the song or gave it meaning.
- “Jungeland,” Born to Run – A no brainer. As I found out this weekend, Clarence spent over 16 hours rehearsing his solo on this song. When you think of Jungleland, you think of Clarence’s part. Important to me, I remember slow dancing to his solo with my girlfriend at her first Bruce concert in 2008.
- “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” Christmas of Hope – Clearly not an original E-Street song but Clarence’s part always puts a smile on his face with his ho-ho-ho’s and solo. It’s not Christmas in my mind without playing this a few dozen times.
- “Land of Hope and Dreams,” Live in New York City – Big Man’s solo in this inspirational number is superb example of what Clarence does best: echo Bruce’s words with his sax.
- “Bobby Jean,” Born in the USA – Love it when he played this live! Brought the whole audience to synchronized waving.
- “Night,” Born to Run - Although not a solo, Clarence’s part in the beginning and end of this song always got my heart beating a little faster.
- “Out in the Street,” The River - In his deep voice, “MEET ME OUT IN THE STREET, BAAAAABY” always got a big ovation from the crowd. I was C’s last show in NYC in 2009 and was saddened to see that he couldn’t get out of his seat to say this, Bruce had to come over to him.
- “Long Walk Home,” Magic – When this album came out in 2007, hearing Clarence’s solo on this song gave me chills. I thought to myself, “HE’S STILL GOT IT!”
- “Drive All Night,” The River - Probably only second to Jungleland in the emotional reaction the song brings. I recommend people watch the scene in “Reign O’er Me” that uses C’s solo. Terrible movie, great use of the song.
- “So Young and In Love,” Tracks – One of the finest examples of the soul Clarence brought to E-Street
- “Sherry Darling,” The River – It’s not summer until I hear this song! Whenever I heard Clarence’s part, my mind jumps to the beach, wherever I may be.
After finalizing this playlist and listening from beginning to end, I went through the continuum of emotions. I went from sorrow over the finality of the situation to joy. Joy that Clarence’s work is only fingertips away at all times, joy I was able to see Clarence in concert, joy that the “biggest man the world has ever seen” is forever on the soundtrack to my life. Thank you Clarence for being you, you did nothing but put smiles on people’s faces. Despite the “teardrops on the city,” this is a time to celebrate Clarence’s life. A grand life lived by a larger than life character. Rest in peace Big Man, I’ll meet your further on the road.
Looks like it’s the rehearsal but this version from Live From New York City gives me chills
Sherry Darling
