Clarence Clemons Passes On

I was saddened to hear that sax man Clarence Clemons passed away from complications of a stroke he had a week or two ago.  He knew that he was the "Big Man" of rocker Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band in New Jersey.  I remember watching a music tribute to Dick Clark with Grandma and Grandpa a few years back when they recognized Clarence and his sax.  See, they were knowledgeable about Black celebrities and musicians, especially Grandpa.  I just found out from Ra Shawn that he worked on Aretha Franklin's 1980s hit song "Freeway Of Love".  I did not know that.  I read Monday's edition of METRO where Bruce Springsteen really gave Clarence top billing for contributing to the legacy of the E Street Band.  I can imagine Bruce really and totally grieving for his friend.  I can also sense that Bruce did not look at Clarence like he was inferior because he was Black.  They truly had a true friendship beyond race and color.  I also remember listening to Bruce's version of "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" during the Christmas season on CD 106.7 FM from November to December.  On it, Bruce asks Clarence if he had been nice or naughty all year long to determine if he deserved gifts from Santa.  Aaaah!

RIP: Clarence "The Big Man" Clemons,
        1942-2011

IT'S A DONALD THING
Friday, June 24, 2011
12:51 AM