Remembering The Death of Roy Clark, One Of The Most Significant And Influential Figures In Country Music

On November 15, 2018, Roy Clark died at his home in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His publicists, Sandy Brokaw and Jeremy Westby, revealed in a statement that Clark’s death was due to complications of pneumonia. He was 85. 

Dolly Parton was among the many country stars who paid tribute to Clark, saying he “was one of the greatest ever.” Brad Paisley also described Clark as a hero who helped “shaped my path … I practiced his style, then practiced making his facial expressions.”

The Man Who Delivered Country Music To Millions Of Families

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Roy Clark is perhaps best known as a longtime host for the country music variety show Hee Haw, which ran for more than two decades – reaching 30 million viewers a week during the peak of its popularity. Hence, Clark is often referred to as an ambassador of country music along with the culture that built it.

Clark also occasionally appeared on The Tonight Show as a frequent guest and substitute host, delivering humor to audiences all over the world. In addition to that, Clark is best remembered for his recurring role in the renowned sitcom, The Beverly Hillbillies.

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Roy Clark songs were also some of the biggest hits in country music history. His biggest mainstream success was “Yesterday, When I Was Young,” which was his highest charting on the pop tally, peaking at No. 19. Other notable hits by Clark include “Right or Left at Oak Street,” “Thank God and Greyhound,” “Somewhere Between Love and Tomorrow,” and “If I Had To Do It All Over Again.” In 2009, Clark was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Truly, Roy Clark had made an impact in country music that will forever be celebrated.