Roy Clark, a country music star and former host of the long-running TV series « Hee Haw, » died Thursday, his publicist told CNN.
Raised in Washington D. C., the guitarist and banjo player began his musical career as a young teen. He made his first appearance at the Grand Ole Opry at age 17.
Band gigs led to television appearances on « The Tonight Show » and « American Bandstand »
In 1969, Clark and Buck Owens were tapped to co-host « Hee Haw. » The country music and comedy show aired in syndication for more than two decades, with Clark as host or co-host its entire run.
In a tribute to Clark sent by his representatives, they shared some quotes from the country star about his career.
« A TV camera goes right through your soul, » Clark said of his screen work. « If you’re a bad person, people pick that up. I’m a firm believer in smiles. I used to believe that everything had to be a belly laugh. But I’ve come to realize that a real sincere smile is mighty powerful. »
With hits like « The Tips of My Fingers » and « Yesterday, When I Was Young, » Clark was one of the first cross-over artists to land singles on both the country and pop charts.
In 1982, Clark won a Grammy for best country instrumental performance for « Alabama Jubilee. » He was a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry
« Soon as you hit the edge of the stage and see people smiling and know they’re there to hear you, it’s time to have fun, » Clark once said about performing. « I keep a band of great young people around me, and we’re not musically restrained. It’s not about ‘let’s do it correct’ but ‘let’s do it right.' »
Clark ended each of his performances with a humorous note of appreciation: « We had to come, but you had a choice. Thanks for being here. »
He is survived by extensive family and his wife of 61 years, Barbara.
A memorial celebration is planned in Tulsa in the coming days, according to Clark’s representative.
