Legendary Sax Player Clarence Clemons Dies

Jun. 19 2011, Published 7:35 a.m. ET

Legendary musician Clarence Clemons has died at the age of 69, RadarOnline.com has learned.

Clemons --best known for his smooth sax sounds as a member of Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band --had been in the hospital since suffering a serious stroke at his Florida home on June 12.

Springsteen -- who fondly called Clemons "The Big Man" for his imposing figure --issued a statement late Saturday about his dear friend, saying: "His loss is immeasurable and we are honored and thankful to have known him and had the opportunity to stand beside him for nearly 40 years."

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Despite years of health problems, Clemons performed with Lady Gaga on the season finale of American Idol last month. He also played on two songs on Gaga's hit album, Born This Way.

In addition to his long career in music, Clemons also acted, and appeared in Martin Scorsese' 1977 TV musical New York, New York as well as in several films including The Blues Brothers, Swing, and Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure.