Dick Clark Dies At Age 82

Often called the “oldest living teenager”, Dick Clark has died at age 82.   One of the most recognizable and influential people in rock n’ roll, suffered a heart attack Wednesday, April 18.  From Buddy Holly – to Michael Jackson – many began their career with performances on Dick Clark’s American Bandstand.   Clark’s enthusiasm for the “new trend of rock-n-roll, along with his all-American boyish smile, was noted to bridge all racial and political boundaries and encourage America’s youth to listen to, and embrace music of which the older generation didn’t quite approve.  His youthful appearance, and understanding of where the music industry was headed, is what made him “America’s oldest living teenager”.  He hosted the American Bandstand show from 1956-1989.  Clark suffered a heart attack while at St. John’s Hospital in Santa Monica for an outpatient procedure.