Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Cortelia Clark in Nashville
Nashville, a city known for its rich musical heritage and vibrant street performances, is currently shining a spotlight on one of its most unique and inspiring figures: Cortelia Clark. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has unveiled a temporary display titled “Cortelia Clark’s Everyday Blues,” which immerses visitors into the compelling story of this blind folk and blues singer. Open through September 2025, the exhibit takes a closer look at Clark’s remarkable journey and contributions to Nashville’s musical landscape.
A Journey to Nashville
Cortelia Clark arrived in Music City almost a century ago, back in 1919. At just 17 years old, he came to the city with hopes of establishing a better life for himself. Initially, he found work at a broom factory, but music was always calling him. After learning to play the guitar from another blind musician, he began to make a name for himself by performing on the streets of downtown Nashville.
Fast forward to the 1960s, and you could often find Clark playing almost daily on 5th Avenue North, right by a Woolworth store. It was during this time that he caught the eye of RCA Records producer, Felton Jarvis. Recognizing the raw talent and soulful energy Clark brought to his performances, Jarvis recorded him live, capturing the essence of an average day in the city.
The Grammy-Winning Artist
Clark released his significant album, Blues on a Street, in 1966. The album, which cleverly blended his experiences with his heartfelt music, went on to win a Grammy for Best Folk Recording in March 1967. This was a remarkable achievement, and it stood as a testament to the enduring spirit and talent of a man who truly lived his music.
A Tragic End
Tragically, Clark’s story took a devastating turn not long after his Grammy win. A deadly accident occurred when he was filling his kerosene heater; it exploded, leading to a fire that engulfed his wood-frame home. Clark suffered severe burns from the accident and sadly passed away on Christmas Eve in 1969, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
Artifacts on Display
The exhibit is more than just a celebration of Clark’s music; it also offers a glimpse into his life through a variety of artifacts. Among them is Clark’s broken Grammy, which was damaged during the tragic fire. Visitors can also see the Kay 6116 Super-Auditorium model guitar featured on his album cover, alongside his Kay 5113 Plains Special guitar. Each item tells a part of Clark’s story, serving as a tangible connection to a powerful musical figure whose impact on Nashville’s culture is still felt today.
Exploring His Legacy
The museum has also made a wonderful effort to delve deeper into Clark’s life by releasing a new video on its YouTube channel. The video features interviews with some of those who knew him best, including his friend and ardent supporter, Mike Weesner. Alongside him are insights from the museum’s staff, including Vice President of Museum Services Michael Gray and Instrument Collection Curator Jack Clutter. The video captures the essence of Clark’s artistry and the connection he forged with his community.
As we explore “Cortelia Clark’s Everyday Blues,” we are reminded of the power of music to transcend not just personal experiences but also to weave the rich tapestry of a city like Nashville. Clark’s journey from a broom factory worker to a Grammy-winning artist touches our hearts and souls, reminding us that behind every note of music lies a story worth telling.
If you find yourself in Nashville, this exhibit is truly a must-see. It’s an opportunity to celebrate not just the music, but the man behind the guitar—a storyteller of the blues, and a beloved icon of the Nashville music scene.
