It's with a heavy heart that we pass on the news of the death earlier today of Dick Clark, 82, the legendary entertainment impresario, one-time disk jockey and eternal host of American Bandstand whose place in the annals of music history can't be denied. The report was initially published by TMZ but later confirmed by sources including ABC News. Our memories of the great man's appearances on game shows like The $10,000 Pyramid and programs like New Year's Rockin' Eve are too many to recount, but we'd like to take a moment now to remember the great spirit and tenacity of America's Oldest Teenager. Rest in peace, Dick Clark. Let's go hoppin' today, to where things are poppin', the Philadelphia way. Let's drop in on the Bandstand...American Bandstand. Feel free to share your memories of Dick Clark below!
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQyCJZzELwg]
ronfwnc says
The news of Dick Clark's passing is sad news. He was a constant presence on American television for a half century, and he put rock & roll on television when most outlets insisted on doling it out with an eyedropper. But my sadness is measured. Dick Clark was a businessman, and a damned good one. His career was built on making good business decisions, which paid off well for him, while providing us with entertainment and memories. I don't feel he was particularly passionate regarding music, beyond its commercial applications.
Joe Marchese says
Thanks, Ron. Your remembrance of Dick reminded of another tribute from Mark Evanier, a writer who worked with Clark on numerous occasions. Thought you, and others, might enjoy his memories:
http://www.newsfromme.com/2012/04/18/dick-clark-r-i-p/
Joe
ronfwnc says
Thank you, Joe.
I'm a great fan of this blog. I think you do an amazing job of keeping us all informed.
Kevin says
If I learned that Dick Clark was devoted to music and the musicians that created it, I would be pleased. I wonder with all of his wealth, did Dick Clark ever make a significant donation to a health care fund for musicians in need. Most musicians, including the famous, have no health care.