Clarence Clemons
On June 18, 2011, Clarence Clemons died in West Palm Beach, Florida, marking the end of a career that had taken him from the streets of Norfolk, Virginia, to stages and recording studios across the world. He was 69 years old. Born on January 11, 1942, in Norfolk, Clemons grew up to become a saxophonist, musician, composer, and actor whose work spanned rock music and rhythm and blues.
Clemons built his career as a saxophonist working within rock and rhythm and blues, two genres he returned to throughout his life. Beyond his instrumental work, he also worked as a composer, adding another dimension to his output as a musician. He extended his presence into acting as well, appearing in television roles that placed him in front of the camera in addition to the microphone.
His work touched multiple corners of American music and entertainment. As a saxophonist, he contributed to a body of work that crossed the lines between rock and rhythm and blues, and his composing credits added a creative layer to his professional identity. His acting work, including television appearances, showed a range that went beyond his primary role as a musician. Clemons remained a citizen of the United States throughout his life, and his career, rooted in the English-language music tradition, produced a legacy that stretched well beyond his birthplace of Norfolk. He died on June 18, 2011, in West Palm Beach, leaving behind recordings and compositions that document his work across more than one discipline.
Quotes by Clarence Clemons
I'll never be rude to another news person. It's a tough job, a thankless job. You really have to get out there and grovel to get your story.
Nobody played instruments in my family. My father got that bug and said he wants his son to play saxophone.
It used to take a day to get over the partying. But I don't party anymore. I don't miss it, either.
To me, the sax is rock n' roll, even though electric guitars kind of pushed it aside for a while.
More than 50 percent of kids who play an instrument go on to college, yet music education programs at the inner city public schools who need them most continue to be hit hard with budget cuts.
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.
Rock-and-roll, to me, is very serious because we deal with the young people. We deal with people who need something, and that's the same thing that a preacher does. He feeds you something that you need spiritually in your soul and in your makeup.