Clarence Clemons, E-Street Band Saxophonist, "Seriously Ill" After Stroke

Beloved E-Street Band sax man Clarence Clemons is reportedly "seriously ill" in his Florida home after suffering a stroke. His exact condition is currently unclear, but a source tells Showbiz 411 that members of the E Street Band were advised to get down to Florida "as soon as possible." The stroke is latest in a series of health setbacks for the 69-year-old musician, who in the past year had both knees replaced AND spinal fusion surgery, MSNBC reports. "That last tour was hell," Clemons told Rolling Stone in February. "Pure hell."

Clemons did not miss any tour dates, but had to perform some shows from a wheelchair. Last week he was supposed to play the national anthem before Game 2, but a hand injury forced him to cancel at the last minute. What a drag it is getting old. But don't count The Big Man out—as he previously told Rolling Stone, "As long as my mouth, hands and brain still work I'll be out there doing it. I'm going to keep going 'til I'm not there anymore. This is what's keeping me alive and feeling young and inspired. My spiritual teacher Sri Chinmoy told me that my purpose in life is to bring joy and light to the world, and I don't know any better way to do then what I'm doing now."

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By John Del Signore in Arts & Entertainment on June 13, 2011 10:40 AM

Comments [rss]

sackpersonn

Let's be clear, Clarence had his problems, but he NEVER did a show from a wheelchair.

virgilstarkwell

close enough:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/...

virgilstarkwell

of all the clips to pick, you went with 'cover me'?

i'm pretty sure you meant to say:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...

SpideySense

Strokes vary greatly in symtoms and in seveirty. Wishing Clarence all the best in his recovery.

el192

According to Backstreets.com:

The latest
out of Florida has Clarence Clemons in better condition than anyone
expected, a close friend tells Backstreets: "Yesterday, it did not look
good at all. Today... miracles are happening. His vital signs are
improving. He's responsive. His eyes are welling up when we're talking
to him. He was paralyzed on his left side, but now he's squeezing with
his left hand. This is the best news we've heard since [the stroke]
happened — it's nothing short of miraculous. The next five days will
still be critical. But he's a fighter."

My thoughts are with the Big Man.

Matt F.

This is just gut-wrenching to me. I grew up on Bruce's music, I introduced my wife to Bruce, and we took our daughter in-utero to a Bruce show. I knew Clarence was getting older but I had a long shot hope I'd be able to take my daughter to see him perform with Bruce when she was old enough to appreciate it.

Get well soon, Big Man.