'Big Man' Clarence Clemons recalled in NJ haunt

ASBURY PARK, N.J. — Dozens of fans have gathered at a legendary New Jersey rock club to mourn the death and celebrate the life and music of saxophonist Clarence Clemons.

The Stone Pony in Asbury Park was the place where Clemons, Bruce Springsteen and other E Street band mates got their musical starts. It opened its doors Sunday to a crowd of about 150 people, many adorned in Springsteen T-shirts.

A makeshift vigil was created at the club late Saturday as word spread of Clemons' death from complications of a stroke. By Sunday afternoon, the stage was adorned with Clemons photos.

Fans were lining up to snap photos and leave flowers to honor Clemons. He was known as the Big Man, a nod to his physical size, stage presence and booming sax notes.