A Grammy-winning gospel music icon has been handed a key to Mississippi’s city with soul.
Jackson Mayor John Horhn on Sunday presented the symbolic key to Elbernita “Twinkie” Clark while also issuing a proclamation officially designating Oct. 12 as “Twinkie Clark Day” in the capital city.
The presentation, held at Jackson State University’s Rose E. McCoy Auditorium, celebrated Clark’s decades-long influence on gospel music and her role as a leader and inspiration for musicians and worshippers nationwide.
“Twinkie Clark’s extraordinary talent and lifelong dedication have enriched the lives of countless people. Her music has uplifted hearts and inspired worship,” Horhn said. “Jackson is proud to honor Twinkie’s legacy and welcome her to our city as we celebrate her contributions to gospel music and culture.”
The soulful singer, known for her solo work, along with her role in the popular gospel group The Clark Sisters, received the prestigious Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024. Some of her top songs are “Jesus Is A Love Song” and “Blessed and Highly Favored.”
Though Clark is a native of Michigan, she is now recognized as an honorary Jacksonian because of her music’s influence on the city’s populace.
