I've Ditched Boss To Join The Temple

Mar 16 2008 Billy Sloan

US rock star Clarence Clemons is stepping out of the shadow of Bruce Springsteen to hit the road with a great new group.

But I can reveal the sax player - dubbed "heavyweight champion of the world" by The Boss - isn't quitting the legendary E Street Band.

Clarence has formed Temple Of Soul, who release debut album, Brothers In Arms on March 27.

They've already earned the "supergroup" tag as the band also features top producer Narada Michael Walden; TM Stevens, who played on classic hits Living In America by James Brown and Unchain My Heart by Joe Cocker; and Vernon "Ice" Black, who has worked with Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin.

Clarence told me: "I just wanted to dance again so Temple Of Soul is pure joy.

"Musically these guys have always impressed me but I've never had the chance to work with them. It's the most exciting project I've done on my own."

Clarence has revealed his musical sabbatical with Temple Of Soul is also good for his health after he went through three hip operations.

He said: "I had surgery on my hips and legs and psychologically had to get it into my head I could dance again.

"That stuff happens when you get old...but I REFUSE to get old.

"It's been a while since I've been able to shake a leg seriously.

"The music has helped me get into it."

Clarence will perform with the E Street Band in the UK this summer and can't speak highly enough of The Boss.

He said: "Bruce is such an inspiration. I can't express enough what a great musician and great guy he is. He brings out the best in me."