Dick Clark R.I.P.

DICK CLARK: Rock World Remembers

A number of artists have commented on yesterday's death of Dick Clark. Among them are:

Tommy Shaw of Styx:

"So sad hearing the news that Dick Clark died. He was such an awesome man. I appeared several times on his productions. One of my favorites was in 1985. I remember just having gotten lingual braces (the hidden ones that go on the back side of your teeth) and as you can tell I was still getting used to speaking with them. He and his wife Kari were incredibly gracious and I will always remember how their gentle ways trickled down through the ranks at Dick Clark Productions. He's up there with Johnny Carson and Ed Sullivan as pioneers in entertainment. He was a class act whose joy came through in all that he created for us to enjoy."

Graham Nash:

"Not so sure that American rock and roll would be where it is if not for Dick."

Rod Stewart:

"Everyone of my generation in the music industry owes Dick Clark their respect and gratitude because somewhere along the line he was there with his energy, enthusiasm, passion for songs, and the artists who wrote and recorded them. Best of all, he was a true gentleman and I will miss him."

Emilio Castillo from Tower of Power:

"It's hard to imagine a world without Dick Clark. He was the rock upon which

rock and roll was built. When Tower of Power had the good fortune to do New Years Rockin' Eve with him it was a high point in our career and I remember being awestruck that I was in the same room with him. The show was on the Queen Mary and...Dick was clearly in charge, extremely respectful and friendly to us entertainers, and a consummate pro. There will never be another like him."

Hall & Oates:

"Dick's understated yet omnipresent personality created a new media format. With an understated on-air presence, he made the kids and their music the stars of the show. His genius was in his ability to use the power of television to help define how American teenagers saw themselves. Dick Clark's American Bandstand spread the gospel of American pop music and teenage style that transcended the regional boundaries of our country and united a youth culture that eventually spread its message throughout the entire world. With his passing, Dick Clark deserves to take his place at the top in the pantheon of popular culture icons."

Ann Wilson:

"Back in the 1960's the pop culture catch-phrase was, 'Never trust anyone over 30.' Dick Clark was trustworthy all the way home. Rock on sir!"

Walt Parazaider of Chicago:

"Dick was my mentor and hero. I'm proud to say I knew him since 1965. He showed me that anything was possible if you really believed. He inspired me to dream large. He was a true gentleman and teenager his whole life. He had many sayings he was known for. The one I remember the most is 'music is the soundtrack of our lives.' I will miss him, but he will always be a part of my life!"

--Sal Cirrincione

Tommy Shaw on American Bandstand in 1985: