Who Is Gene Clark? Age, Biography and Wiki
Gene Clark was born on November 17, 1944, and left an indelible mark on the music world until his passing in 1991. Known for his poetic songwriting and distinctive voice, Clark was a pivotal figure in the American folk-rock movement and one of the founding members of The Byrds, a band that played a crucial role in the evolution of rock music. Even decades after his death, his influence continues to resonate with fans and musicians alike, making him a subject of continued interest in 2025.
| Occupation | Country Singer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 17, 1944 |
| Age | 46 Years |
| Birth Place | Tipton, Missouri, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 24 May, 1991 |
| Died Place | N/A |
Popularity
Gene Clark's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Gene Clark stood at an approximate height of 6 feet (183 cm) and had a lean build which was typical for artists of his era. While specific weight measurements are not extensively documented, he maintained a healthy physique throughout his life, often reflecting the vibrant energy of the 1960s music scene.
On the basis of the quality of Clark's contributions to Byrds, David Geffen signed him to Asylum Records in early 1974. The label was the home of the most prominent exponents of the singer-songwriter movement of the era and carried the kind of hip cachet that Clark hadn't experienced since his days with the Byrds.
While composing the album, he spent long periods with a notebook and an acoustic guitar at the picture window of his home, deriving inspiration from staring at the Pacific Ocean.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Throughout his life, Gene Clark was notably private about his personal relationships. However, it is known that he was married to his high school sweetheart, Carol, in the mid-1960s, which ended in divorce. Clark's romantic life also included relationships with several prominent figures in the music industry. As of 2025, speculation about his past relationships continues to spark curiosity among fans and biographers. Despite his fame, he preferred to keep his family life relatively low-key.
His family moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where as a boy he began learning to play the guitar and harmonica from his father. He was soon playing Hank Williams tunes as well as songs by early rockers such as Elvis Presley and the Everly Brothers. He began writing songs at the age of 11.
By the time he was 15, he had developed a rich tenor voice, and he formed a local rock and roll combo, Joe Meyers and the Sharks. Like many of his generation, Clark developed an interest in folk music because of the popularity of The Kingston Trio.
When he graduated from Bonner Springs High School, in Bonner Springs, Kansas, in 1962, he formed a folk group, the Rum Runners.
Net Worth and Salary
Gene Clark's net worth at the time of his passing was estimated to be around $1 million. However, due to the resurgence in popularity of his music in recent years and the enduring legacy he left behind, it can be speculated that his estate has seen continued financial success, with the potential for increased earnings through posthumous album releases, merchandise, and royalties.
A management decision gave McGuinn the lead vocals for their major singles and Bob Dylan songs.
This disappointment, combined with Clark's dislike of traveling (including a chronic fear of flying) and resentment by other band members about the extra income he derived from his songwriting, led to internal squabbling, and he left the group in early 1966.
He briefly returned to Kansas City before moving back to Los Angeles to form Gene Clark & the Group with Chip Douglas, Joel Larson, and Bill Rhinehart.
Career, Business and Investments
Clark's career began in the early 1960s as a founding member of The Byrds, where he contributed significantly to classic hits like "Mr. Tambourine Man" and "Turn! Turn! Turn!". After departing from the band, he launched a solo career that produced several acclaimed albums, showcasing his innovative spirit and dedication to the craft. In 2025, his works are celebrated more than ever, with several tribute albums and biopics highlighting his contributions to music. Clark's business ventures largely revolved around his music, and though he did not engage in many outside investments, his influence in the industry remains a valuable legacy.
Harold Eugene Clark (November 17, 1944 – May 24, 1991) was an American singer-songwriter and founding member of the folk rock band the Byrds.
He was the Byrds' principal songwriter between 1964 and early 1966, writing most of the band's best-known originals from this period, including "I'll Feel a Whole Lot Better", "She Don't Care About Time", "Eight Miles High" and "Set You Free This Time".
Although he did not achieve commercial success as a solo artist, Clark was in the vanguard of popular music during much of his career, prefiguring developments in such disparate subgenres as psychedelic rock, baroque pop, newgrass, country rock, and alternative country.
He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991 as a member of the Byrds.
Social Network
Gene Clark's presence on social media is maintained by fans and music historians who keep his memory alive. Platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter are filled with tributes, rare photos, and discussions about his music. Official fan pages and memorial accounts serve as a way for new generations to discover his work and connect with long-time admirers, ensuring his legacy remains vibrant within the online community.
Clark wrote or co-wrote many of the Byrds' best-known originals from their first three albums, including "I'll Feel a Whole Lot Better", "Set You Free This Time", "Here Without You", "You Won't Have to Cry", "If You're Gone", "The World Turns All Around Her", "She Don't Care About Time" and "Eight Miles High".
He initially played rhythm guitar in the band, but relinquished that position to David Crosby and became the tambourine and harmonica player.
Bassist Chris Hillman noted years later in an interview remembering Clark, "At one time, he was the power in the Byrds, not McGuinn, not Crosby—it was Gene who would burst through the stage curtain banging on a tambourine, coming on like a young Prince Valiant. A hero, our savior. Few in the audience could take their eyes off this presence.
He was the songwriter. He had the 'gift' that none of the rest of us had developed yet.... What deep inner part of his soul conjured up songs like 'Set You Free This Time,' 'I'll Feel A Whole Lot Better,' 'I'm Feelin' Higher,' 'Eight Miles High'? So many great songs!
We learned a lot of songwriting from him and in the process learned a little bit about ourselves."
Education
Clark's formal education details remain largely obscure, but growing up in Kansas City, Missouri, he was immersed in a musical environment from a young age, which influenced his early compositions and aspirations. His love for music dramatically shaped his educational journey, propelling him into the burgeoning music scene of the 1960s without pursuing a traditional college path.
