NEW YORK (AP) — Bruce Springsteen says band mate Clarence Clemons’ stroke was serious and he’s going to need a lot of help to get back to his former self.

The Boss commented Tuesday on his longtime friend and E Street Band member on his website, Twitter and Facebook. It’s the first time he’s spoken since it was revealed Sunday that the 69-year-old Clemons had suffered a stroke.

Springsteen calls the saxophonist a “beloved comrade” and described the stroke as “serious.”

He says: “Clarence will need much care and support to achieve his potential once again.”

Springsteen says Clemons is surrounded by wife Victoria, other family and friends, and thanked fans for their prayers and good thoughts.

Clemons’ family also thanked fans on Springsteen’s site and urged fans to email their well wishes to notestoclarence@clarenceclemons.com.

Clemons’ nephew, Jake Clemons, said on Facebook, “Keep sending the love, he feels it all!!”

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