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On Saturday legendary saxophonist Clarence Clemons passed away following a stroke he suffered in Florida last week. Clemons was 69.

In 1972 the native of Norfolk, Virginia joined what would later became known as the E Street Band after he met Bruce Springsteen at a club in Asbury Park. Allegedly during a lightning storm, Clemons tore the doors off. Clemons indeed, in both personality and physique, was bigger than life.

Springsteen, in a statement, expressed fond recollections of his friend and band mate.

Clarence lived a great life. Within him he carried a great love of people and we loved him for it. He created a wonderful and extended family. Clarence loved the fans, loved the saxophone. Every night he gave all that he had as soon as stepped out onto the stage. His loss can’t be measured. We are thankful and honored to have known Clarence and had the chance to stand with him for almost forty years.

Clarence was my partner and great friend. With him by my side, me and the band had the ability to tell far deeper stories than those contained simply in the music. His love, memory and life will live on with our band and in that story.

Clemons performed with several other artists, including Aretha Franklin and Ringo Starr. In addition he released five solo sets and in 2009 his semi-fictional autobiography.

In recent years, Clemons’ health had started to falter. Recently he had both of his knees replaced and underwent spinal fusion surgery. However, despite the setbacks his almighty tenor sax still echoes through the minds of new generations of music lovers. On “Edge of Glory,” Lady Gaga’s new single, Clemons is featured.

Gaga’s celebrity status speaks for itself. However the legend of Clemons far surpasses any boundaries.