Country Legend Roy Clark Turns 80 and is Our Solid Gold Pick of the Week

Our birthday boy this week is Roy Clark, he turned 80 on Monday.  We had the opportunity to get to know Roy well when he hosted the nationally televised country variety show "Hee Haw" from 1962-1971, but continued in syndication for another 20 years.  He has been an influence in Country music and his telegenic presence proved he is an all around entertainer.

He is one of the artists that used his real name.  He was born Roy Linwood Clark in 1933.  One of the feathers in his cap was being chosen several times to guest host for Johnny Carson on the Tonight Show.

He is a master at several instruments, he is a guitarist and banjo player, and is also skilled in classical guitar as well as several other instruments. His musical ability had a huge effect on generations of bluegrass and country musicians.

That coupled with his vocals earned him a spot in the Country Music Hall of Fame and has been a  member of the Grand Ole Opry, since 1987.

Here is Roy Clark with a twist on a sad song that leaves him grinning at the end, "Thank God and Greyhound".  Happy Birthday, Roy!