Yesterday, the world lost Dick Clark who died of a heart attack at the age of 82. Famous for both “American Bandstand” and his annual New Year’s Rockin’ Eve Specials, he was a fixture in broadcasting from the ‘50’s to the day he died - both on-the-air and in his later years behind the scenes thru “Dick Clark Productions”.
On a personal note, the “Eternal Teenager” and I both attended Syracuse University (not at the same time, mind you!) but I did spend some time with him over the years. He personally asked me to be one of just 10 judges for a prime time ABC television music special. He was also an in-studio guest on my radio show - the very same day we had Tony Randall at the station. Talk about an “Odd Couple”!
Because of Dick’s style, personality, and presentation, plus the fact that he had strict rules for the kids on the show (he even made the boys wear ties), I think he made parents who happened to watch “American Bandstand” feel more secure and confident about the new Rock ‘n Roll music that their kids were embracing.
So now Ryan Seacrest, his “heir apparent”, will officially take over for Dick… and I wish him well. But somehow, I just don’t think New Year’s Eve will ever be quite the same.
BTW… I hope they play “Amazing Grace” at Dick’s funeral. Why? “Because it’s got a good beat and it’s easy to dance to.”
RIP Dick.