Bruce Springsteen Talks Stroke-Stricken Clarence Clemons, Thanks Fans for "Positive Energy and Concern"

Rocker speaks out for first time after E Street Band saxophonist suffered major stroke

After almost losing one of his most valuable staffers, the Boss is taking time to reflect.

"By now, many of you have heard that our beloved comrade and sax player Clarence Clemons has suffered a serious stroke," Bruce Springsteen said of his E Street Band mate, who has been hospitalized since Sunday. "While all initial signs are encouraging, Clarence will need much care and support to achieve his potential once again."

Luckily, Clemons has a whole band of brothers behind him.

"He has his wonderfully supportive wife, Victoria, excellent doctors and health care professionals, and is surrounded by friends and family," Springsteen continued. "I thank you all for your prayers and positive energy and concern. This is a time for us all to share in a hopeful spirit that can ultimately inspire Clarence to greater heights."

The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer also included an email address for fans to reach out—[e-mail]—but made it clear that all communication would be one-sided for now.

Clemons who first started wailing away with Springsteen in New Jersey in 1972, and they have been playing and touring together off and on ever since.

A friend of the musician told Springsteen fan site Backstreets.com that Clemons, 69, is still hooked up to machines but that his vital signs are getting stronger and that he's starting to regain movement in his paralyzed left side.