Clarence Clemons, longtime saxophonist for Bruce Springsteen‘s E Street Band, has suffered a “massive” stroke, according to the band’s most respected fan site, BackStreets.com. Clarence Clemons reportedly fell ill at his home in Florida on Sunday.
The news of Clemons’ illness was first reported by showbiz411.com. The site broke the news that Bruce Springsteen’s saxophonist had suffered a stroke at home and had been taken to the hospital.
Clemons has reportedly undergone two brain surgeries but is “responsive and in stable condition,” according to BackStreets.com. “He was paralyzed on his left side, but now he’s squeezing with his left hand,†an unidentified friend said, according to the site. “The next five days will still be critical. But he’s a fighter.â€
An original member of the E Street Band, Clarence Clemons is also the oldest member at 69. Fans of American Idol were lucky enough to hear Clemons in action when he played with Lady Gaga during the season finale. Clemons also appears on Lady Gaga’s new album, Born This Way.
Lady Gaga sent out a plea on her Twitter feed Monday morning saying: “my very close friend + musician on The Edge of Glory, Clarence Clemons is very sick. Can we all make some get well videos?â€
Clemons’ nephew Jake, also a saxophonist, posted a message on his Facebook page telling friends and fans: “Please do not lose hope!”