Who was W. C. Clark? Austin Blues Legend and Mentor to Stevie Ray Vaughan, Dies at 84 – W.C. Clark, also known as the “Godfather of Austin Blues,” was a significant figure in the Austin, Texas, blues scene.
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Born on November 16, 1939, in Austin, Texas, Clark began his musical journey at the age of 16, playing his first solo show at the city’s legendary Victory Grill.
He learned various styles, including jazz and R&B, and formed several bands with different names, including the W.C. Clark Blues Revue.
W.C. Clark was known for his powerfully versatile playing style, effectively blending blues, soul, and R&B to create a unique musical language.
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His guitar skills and soulful vocals set him apart in the Austin blues scene. Clark’s ability to infuse different genres into his music showcased his versatility and creativity, making him a standout figure in the blues community.
Additionally, he was recognized for his mastery of the blues harp and his collaborations with renowned artists like Kim Wilson, Angela Strehli, and Jimmy Vaughan.
Clark was also mentor to numerous young blues and soul players, including Stevie Ray Vaughan, whom he met in 1977 while playing in an Austin blues quintet named Triple Threat Revue.
Despite facing challenges, including a tragic accident in 1997 that resulted in the death of his fiancée and drummer, Clark continued to influence the Austin blues scene and was known for his unique style and contributions to the genre.
W.C. Clark passed away on March 3, 2024, at the age of 84, after a brief illness.
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