Country music legend and the former host of the TV series, Hee Haw just passed away. Roy Clark was 85, and he died of complications from pneumonia at his home in Tulsa.

The Country Music Legend, Roy Clark

Roy Clark sings one of his hits, “Yesterday When I Was Young.” Photo from YouTube via Screengrab

Roy Clark grew up in Washington D.C. the guitarist, and banjo player started his career in music as a young teen. Then, he made his first appearance at the Grand Ole Opry at the age of 17. Gigs led him to TV appearances on “The Tonight Show” and American Bandstand.”

Buck Owens together with Roy Clark became the co-host of the TV series Hee Haw in 1969. The country music and comedy filled TV series aired for over two decades and Roy Clark stayed as the host or co-host its entire run.

In a tribute for the country legend from his representatives, they shared quotes from Roy Clark about his career.

“A TV camera goes right through your soul. 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.”

– Roy Clark

His Success

With his hits like, “The Tips of My Fingers” and “Yesterday, When I Was Young,” Roy Clark was one of the first country artists who have a cross-over hit.

Roy Clark won the Grammy for Best Country Instrumental Performance for “Alabama Jubilee” in 1982. He is remembered as one of the members 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. 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.” – Roy Clark

Whenever he ended his performance, he always tells a joke, saying these:

Unfortunately, everybody mourns for this loss because everybody loves one of the most talented artists and one of the legends of county music, Roy Clark. We want to extend our condolence to his family. He will be in our prayers, and he will definitely be missed.