CLARENCE CLEMONS - THERE'S STILL CHRISTMAS

Two newly discovered Christmas songs recorded in 1981 by the late great saxophonist Clarence Clemons have arrived just in time for the holidays. The special CD entitled There's Still Christmas features Clarence singing tenderhearted lead vocals on the poignant title track "There's Still Christmas" (co-written by Dennis Bourke and the late Stevie Betts), while the second track showcases the Big Man on sax on the holiday classic "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts)." There's Still Christmas (Oceangate Records) is currently available on iTunes, Amazon.com and all premium online download destinations as well as through the websites https://bigmanchristmassong.com/ or http://www.backstreets.com/.

Producers Dennis Bourke and Jim Nuzzo helmed the recording session that produced the two never-before-released tracks. Armed with the support of the Clarence Clemons Trust and his son Clarence Clemons III (a.k.a. Nick Clemons), the producers are honored to be a part of this celebrated legacy with this unique release. Bourke and Nuzzo recall, "We were blessed to have the opportunity to share some time with Clarence and record these marvelous Christmas tunes. He poured himself into the project, wearing Santa gear and capturing the essence of the season.

"With his passing in June 2011, we were all saddened to lose this American rock icon. One of the beauties of recorded music is its eternal power to play on long after the artist is physically gone. Clarence has a parting Christmas gift to us all with these soon-to-be holiday classics. Open up your hearts and listen to the Big Man say Merry Christmas to the world."

The Nick Clemons Band recently headlined the sold-out "Clarence Clemons Christmas Songs" CD release party held at the Wonder Bar in Asbury Park on November 18, and will make two special appearances at the legendary Stone Pony, with a Christmas concert on Friday, Dec. 23, and the "Light Of Day" tribute concert for the "Asbury Angels" honoring the musicians and other members of the Asbury Park music scene who have passed on in recent years on Friday, January 13. Honorees include Clarence Clemons, Danny Federici, Kevin Kavanaugh, Donnie Bertleson and John Luraschi.

Best known for his contributions to Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, Clarence Clemons recorded with many other artists including Jackson Browne, Aretha Franklin and most recently Lady Gaga and released a number of solo musical projects over his illustrious career.