This week has been tough for fans of various genres. Comic book enthusiasts lost Marvel Comics' iconic writer/editor Stan Lee, and country music fans are mourning the passing of Roy Clark, a beloved musician and Hee Haw star. At 85 years old, Roy passed away on November 15 due to complications from pneumonia. His legacy lives on, and his impact on the world of music is undeniable.
Linda Thompson, a talented actress and songwriter, shared her thoughts exclusively with Closer Weekly. She said, "Roy Clark was an extraordinary musician who could play any instrument with ease. His voice was powerful, and his performances were unforgettable. Beyond his musical prowess, Roy had a great sense of humor that lit up any room he entered. His talent and warm heart will leave a void that will be hard to fill."
A Musical Journey: Roy Clark's Early Days
Roy Clark was born on April 15, 1933, in Meherrin, Virginia. However, he spent most of his childhood in Staten Island, New York. At just 14 years old, Roy discovered his passion for music and began learning how to play the banjo, guitar, and mandolin. His talent was evident early on, as he won two National Banjo Championships and the world banjo/guitar flatpick championships by the age of 15. Despite his dedication to music, Roy also tried his hand at sports, participating in baseball and boxing. Ultimately, he realized that music was his true calling and decided to pursue it full-time.
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(Photo by Fotos International/Getty Images)
Roy Clark: Breaking Into the Spotlight
By the mid-1950s, Roy's career was beginning to take off. He became a regular on Jimmy Dean’s Washington, D.C., and in 1960, he moved to Las Vegas to work as a guitarist for Hank Penny, a bandleader and comedian. Simultaneously, he performed with Wanda Jackson's backing band. His big break came when Jimmy Dean invited him as a guest on The Tonight Show, giving him national exposure. This led to recurring roles on The Beverly Hillbillies and a guest appearance on The Odd Couple. However, his most significant success came with Hee Haw.
Hee Haw: The Show That Defined Roy Clark
Hee Haw was a unique blend of country music and comedy. It aired on CBS from 1969 to 1971 and then went into syndication until 1993. Hosted by Roy and Buck Owens, the show became a cultural phenomenon. Roy cherished his time on Hee Haw and often spoke about it fondly. In an interview with NPR, he explained the show's appeal: "We didn’t hurt anyone. We were out there having a good time. You can get educated elsewhere, but you can come to Hee Haw and get another kind of education. Critics said our audience was only country fans, but I’d walk down the street in New York City and someone would yell, 'Hey, Roy, I’m a-pickin.' And I’d say, 'Well, I’m a-grinnin.'"
Roy Clark's contributions to country music and his work on Hee Haw have left an indelible mark on fans around the world. His music earned him numerous Country Music Awards, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations. As we celebrate his life, we smile through our tears, remembering the joy and laughter he brought into our lives.
