Today is Roy Clark’s birthday!
The entertainer was born in Meherrin, Virginia back in 1933 and delighted audiences for decades with his music and as the host of Hee Haw. He was a master of many instruments-- including the banjo, guitar, mandolin, fiddle, and harmonica.
He earned multiple awards from the Academy of Country Music and the Grammys. His debut at the Grand Ole Opry was at the age of 17 and would later join the organization in 1987.
Fans might be surprised to learn he originally pursued a career as an athlete. Those flying fingers so adept at rolls on the banjo actually packed a powerful punch and Clark was a promising boxer before embracing music full-time.
Sadly, in 2018, he passed away at the age of 85 due to complications from pneumonia.
To check out his “Consummate Entertainer” interview HERE
To check out the story of his exhibit click HERE