Yesterday, Dick Clark, America's Oldest Teenager, passed away at the age of 82 following a heart attack after a medical procedure. For many, the passing of Clark represents the passing of an era long gone and the youthfulness of that era that still resonates today within people, young and old. The ever youthful host and radio DJ was best known for American Bandstand, the ground breaking daily (eventually, weekly) show that served as a dance party in your living room and helped ease some of the racial tensions in America when they were at their worst as Clark openly invited African-American performers to a show that formerly opposed the concept.
In addition, his Bandstand duties, no New Year's Eve was ever complete without Clark emceeing the festivities in Times Square on Dick Clark's New Year Rockin' Eve. Beginning in 1972, his musical contribution to New Year's Eve changed the way we celebrated the event and brought the party, the crowd and the famous dropping ball to your own location and inspired numerous imitators to provide the same sense of excitement. In recent times, due to health issues, Ryan Seacrest has served as the co-host to the televised event.
To Dick Clark, may we, like you, stay forever young and enjoy the sounds fueled by the world around us. Like fellow (and recently departed) host, Don Cornelius, you were a pioneer who knew how to give the fans what the they wanted while keeping things fresh and unique. Your contributions to the way in which we enjoy music will never be forgotten.
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