By Mark Rosman
Staff Writer
The image of Clarence Clemons and Bruce Springsteen having a wonderful time together on stage is a picture that fans of the E Street Band will always remember from their concert-going experiences over the span of four decades.
Clemons, who was affectionately dubbed the “Big Man” by Springsteen all those years ago, was a marvelous presence on stage, weaving the sound of his saxophone through Springsteen’s musical tales.
The E Street Band lost one of its most precious parts when Clemons died at the age of 69 in June 2011. Clemons’ death followed the loss of another founding member of the band, keyboardist Danny Federici, who died at the age of 58 in 2008.
Now, Clemons’ family has decided to sell some of the items he owned. The auction will take place in Springsteen’s hometown, Freehold Borough, on the evening of Feb. 25. The public is invited to attend the auction.
Downtown Freehold, the nonprofit organization that promotes Freehold Borough’s downtown district and presents concerts, shows and other activities, is sponsoring the event that will take place at the Freehold Art Gallery, 7A W. Main St. (above CVS pharmacy).
Items to be auctioned off include pictures, artwork, posters, clothing and other personal items that had been owned by Clemons, according to information provided by Downtown Freehold.
Asked why these items are being placed up for auction now, Clarence’s eldest son, Nick Clemons, said, “I’m writing a book. While I was doing the research, I would surround myself with photographs and books.
“It got to the point where I wanted to share with the fans so that the people who loved, respected and supported him could be a part of his history and life. These are the same people who helped make Clarence Clemons the musician and person he was.”
Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 25. Reservations are required to attend the event and may be made by sending an email to freeholdartgallery@gmail.com, by phone at 908-614-6195 or at the gallery box office.
The week before the auction of Clarence Clemons’ memorabilia, the Nick Clemons Band will perform at the Freehold Art Gallery. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 17 and the show will begin at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25. Email freeholdartgallery@gmail.com, call 908-614-6195 or stop by the art gallery box office for tickets.
