Clark celebrates a career milestone as she headlines Nashville’s iconic Ryman Auditorium
Terri Clark, the Canadian country music star from the ’90s, has finally achieved one of her biggest dreams: headlining the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.
For Clark, this moment seemed like it might never come, but her career and the Ryman have both seen a resurgence in recent years, making this performance possible.
Reflecting on her journey, Clark admitted she thought some of these milestones were behind her. But standing on the iconic stage of the Ryman, she realized it’s never too late to reach new heights. The concert, which was also live-streamed, brought together fans from all generations, proving that Clark’s music still resonates.
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Clark, who first gained fame with her 1995 hit “Better Things to Do,” has been enjoying a renaissance in her career. Recently, she was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, opened for Reba McEntire on a 30-date tour, and released a well-received duets album that revisits her classic songs.
She also performed at the ACM Honors awards show, showcasing her enduring influence in the country music world.
Part of Clark’s recent success can be attributed to the impact she’s had on today’s female country stars. Artists like Ashley McBryde, Carly Pearce, and Lainey Wilson have all expressed how much Clark has inspired them, and they eagerly participated in her duets album.
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Clark has fond memories of these interactions, such as when Lauren Alaina cried after being asked to join the project, or when Lainey Wilson treasured a vintage T-shirt from Clark’s collection.
While Clark no longer focuses on chasing radio hits, she continues to create music and perform, often choosing more intimate, acoustic settings. Her perspective has shifted over the years, from wanting to prove herself to simply wanting to connect with her audience and bring them joy through her songs.
The Ryman Auditorium holds a special significance for Clark. She first visited the venue when she moved to Nashville at 18 and dreamed of one day performing there. Now, standing on that stage, she describes the experience as comforting and familiar, saying it feels “like a hug.”
Clark’s recent performance at the Ryman featured her biggest hits, along with some surprises, like duets with Ashley McBryde and Trisha Yearwood. As she reflects on her career, Clark is grateful for the longevity she’s experienced and the new milestones she’s still able to achieve. In her words, she’s just “in awe of it all.”