Clarence "The Big Man" Clemons of Bruce Springsteen's legendary E Street Band has passed away at the age of 69 from complications due to a June 12 stroke. A talented saxophone player who rose to fame with unforgettable solos on Springsteen songs such as "Jungleland" and "Born to Run," Clemons had undergone spinal and knee surgery in 2009 and 2010 respectively. His health seemed to be improving prior to the stroke however, having recently performed on three tracks of Lady Gaga's wildly popular new album, Born This Way. Springsteen had this to say about the loss:

"Clarence lived a wonderful life. 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."

Our deepest condolences go out to Clarence's friends, family and fans.