Clay Hart was a country music singer and guitarist who was best known for being a member of The Lawrence Welk Show from 1969 to 1975. He was also nominated for a Grammy Award for his 1969 single “Spring”. He passed away on July 28, 2022, at the age of 86. What was the cause of his death and how did he live his life? Here are some facts you need to know.
Early Life and Career
Clay Hart was born Henry Clay Hart III on July 1, 1936, in Providence, Rhode Island. He attended Amherst College in Massachusetts as a theater arts major. He had a passion for music and performed in small clubs after graduation. He worked as a salesman and a credit analyst briefly, but soon pursued a full-time music career.
He was discovered by Lawrence Welk, the famous bandleader and TV host, while performing in West Virginia. Welk invited him to join his show as the resident country singer, replacing Lynn Anderson. He made his first network TV appearance in July 1969 and stayed on the show until 1975. He became popular with the viewers for his smooth voice and guitar skills.
Musical Achievements and Personal Life
Clay Hart released several albums and singles during his career, both as a solo artist and as a duet partner with his wife, Sally Flynn. His most successful single was “Spring”, which reached No. 10 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1969. He was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance for this song, but lost to Johnny Cash.
He married Sally Flynn, another singer on The Lawrence Welk Show, on December 6, 1974. They had two children, Clay IV and Katie. They also performed together on various shows and tours, including The Lawrence Welk Show Reunion Specials. They moved to Florida in the late 1980s and continued to make music until his death.
Cause of Death and Legacy
Clay Hart died on July 28, 2022, at his home in Cocoa, Florida. According to Legacy Remembers, he died after “lovingly and diligently completing his tour of duty on this earthly plane”. The exact cause of his death was not disclosed, but he had been suffering from health issues for some time.
He was remembered by his fans and friends as a talented and humble musician who brought joy to many people with his songs. He was also praised for his faith and devotion to God and his family. He left behind a legacy of country music that will be cherished by generations to come.