The godfather of Nashville songwriters, Guy Charles Clark, has died at the age of 74.
The celebrated country and folk musician died in Nashville on Tuesday from persistent health problems, according to a release on his Facebook page.
Clark was know for his songs'lyrical inventiveness and soaring narrative, showcased in hits such as LA Freeway, about the failed expectations for life in the big city, and Desperados Waiting for a Train, which was inspired by life in his grandmother's 13 room rural Texas hotel
His reputation as a songwriting legend was cemented by recordings of his songs by artists including Johnny Cash, Emmylou Harris and George Strait.
Before settling in Nashville with his partner Susanna Clark in 1971, Clark had lived around his home state of Texas, performing music, repairing guitars and building lasting relationship with musicians such as Kay Oslin, Gary White and Townes Van Zandt
He married Susanna in 1972 and remained in the country music hotbed until his death
Although he never found widespread fame, Clark recorded albums for almost 40 years, wrote hit songs for other artists and was revered by the Nashville music community for his songcraft and generosity of spirit. His best-known songs, such as "L.A. Freeway" and "Desperados Waiting For A Train," were evocative tales of ramblers and dreamers, inspired by his own life.
Despite a gruff demeanor, Clark was considered one of country music's nicest men. He enjoyed helping young musicians and was perpetually looking for artists who might record a song written by one of his friends.
Musicians mourned his death online. Clay Cook of the Zac Brown Band said on Twitter:"I guess we can't live forever. Gonna miss Mr Guy Clark. He was great ol feller" And singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell posted a photo of his friend and mentor, Clark.
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