Dick Clark - The Oldest American Teenager...

Dick Clark, who was often referred to by his fans as the "oldest American teenager", died of a massive stroke on Wednesday, April 18, 2012. He is best remembered for his pioneering work as the host of American Bandstand, a popular television show which spanned three decades.

Here is a video clip highlighting American Bandstand's musical history:



Dick's career began in 1956 when he took over an existing TV show and transformed it into American Bandstand. He had a passion for music and his show was the perfect platform for introducing some of Rock's biggest upcoming stars to a new generation.

American Bandstand has been credited as being an "early predecessor... of the music video shows that became popular in the 1980s" The show featured such notable acts as: Michael Jackson, Kiss, Chubby Checkers, The Supremes, Jerry Lee Lewis, Stevie Wonder, The Beach Boys, The Doors, Creedence Clearwater Revival... and countless other celebrities.

Dick Clark was a man who had an instinct for knowing how to stay on the cutting edge. ...

"Clark has been bestowed with too many honors to try to summarize, including the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Hall of Fame. He also won five Emmy Awards, including a lifetime achievement award, and a Peabody Award." - Los Angeles Times





Many celebrities achieved success due in part to the help they received from Dick Clark and American Bandstand...

I loved Dick Clark. He was so instrumental in my career as well as all the
other Motown acts and so many others… Smokey Robinson

There hasn’t been any one show that had more impact on music then American
Bandstand. Often imitated but never duplicated. RIP Dick Clark... Slash

Without him, there’d be no MTV, American Idol or Seacrest. A pioneer I thought would never die. He was always kind to me. RIP Dick Clark... Lou Diamond Phillips

As for myself, I remember watching American Bandstand with my older brother and his girlfriend when I was a kid. In addition to hearing lots of great music, I also learned some of the latest dance steps!  It's easy to see that I'm not alone when I say he will be missed, but we can always treasure the memories he helped to create for us.

Dick Clark of American Bandsta

Till next time...
Keep practicing!

K.Unruh
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