Legendary Showman

With a recent health scare behind him, Clement continues to turn life into a stage, embracing whimsy and melodic musicality like sweet waltz partners. His infrequent performances breezily spin melodic pre-war standards, classic rock rave-ups and openhearted country truths while providing an antidote to the calculation and cynicism that saps the joy from most modern music. At age 77, he’s a direct link to some of America’s best music: He produced Jerry Lee Lewis’ first Sun Records hits, brought out the best in his buddy Johnny Cash, convinced Chet Atkins to sign Charley Pride and produced Waylon Jennings’ landmark album Dreamin’ My Dreams. Each would tell you that Clement is his own greatest creation.
Thu., Jan. 15, 8 p.m., 2009