Clarence Clemons
Tenor Sax Solo on
Drive All Night

About

Clarence Clemons's tenor saxophone solo on "Drive All Night" is the only solo on this slow-burning, eight-minute declaration of devotion from The River. Playing at a deliberate 64 BPM in F, Clemons delivers an extended, emotionally devastating solo that ranks among the most powerful instrumental performances in the Springsteen catalog. The slow tempo exposes every nuance of his tone and phrasing, and his warm, sustained saxophone lines carry a depth of feeling that matches Springsteen's passionate vocal performance. The solo serves as the emotional centerpiece of the album's final side.

Clarence Clemons was 37 to 38 years old at the time.