Even though we had about a week’s notice that it might happen, it still remained a shock to me that we lost the “Big Man” Clarence Clemons to a stroke.
As I was planning what I was going to write here, I began to feel self-conscious that many readers of webcomics, (or mine in particular) might not see the fuss. Some might feel music that essentially peaked in the 80′s is irrelevant or dated.
Too bad.
This is my blog. As a guy from the NY/NJ region who spent half his life in Jersey, I always felt attendance at a Springsteen concert was a requirement. I first saw Springsteen and the E Street Band at the No-Nukes concert when I was in high school, and one other time for the Born In The USA tour. I was not as avid a fan as some friends, but make no mistake – the sound of Clarence’s sax was a key tone in the soundtrack of my formative years.
All throughout Twitter, folks were citing “Jungleland” as his masterpiece. With good reason. Listen to his solo near the end. It’s full of passion. Try to imagine that The Boss probably made the band run the song a hundred times – maybe the passion was anger! Still, have you ever heard a sound like that horn? It’s up there with Jimi’s guitar, Janis’ voice, Entwistle’s bass and Bonham’s drums.
And my concern about seeming old-fashioned is assuaged by his recent appearance with Lady Gaga. Is anything more hip and contemporary than that?
In closing, it was put eloquently and sensitively by (of all people) @rachael_ray on Twitter:
Btw dads that r Springsteen fans must be having sad Father’s Day w deep loss and too soon, RIP Clarence Clemons.
Rest in Peace Big Man.
I’ll get back to less serious fare Wednesday. See you then.
-T.A.D.
Well said, Tim, well said….great pic too..