Recording Academy Issues Statement on Passing of Singer Songwriter Guy Clark

CNN reports that singer/songwriter Guy Clark passed away onTuesday in Nashville after a long illness, according to a statement from his publicist. He was 74.

Clark's career spanned over 40 years. He wrote songs for such iconic artists as Johnny Cash, Ricky Skaggs, Emmylou Harris, Brad Paisley, Alan Jackson, George Strait, Jimmy Buffett, and Kenny Chesney. His best-known songs included "L.A. Freeway" and "Desperados Waiting For A Train."

Yesterday, The Recording Academy issued the following statement on his passing:

May 17, 2016

Guy Clark was truly gifted, both as a songwriter and folk musician. Having penned classics like "Desperados Waiting For A Train" and "L.A. Freeway," Guy became one of the most admired figures in Nashville, and served as a songwriting mentor to many other talented musicians. Guy's songs were recorded by artists such as Johnny Cash, Kenny Chesney, Vince Gill, and Ricky Skaggs, with many reaching the upper echelon of the country songs chart. And his much-acclaimed album, My Favorite Picture Of You, earned him a GRAMMY® Award for Best Folk Album for 2013. We have lost a cherished artist and our sincerest condolences go out to Guy's family, friends, and collaborators.

Neil Portnow
President/CEO
The Recording Academy