As we remember Dick Clark, we honor him with a few of our favorite musical moments with the late “American Bandstand” host.
“Ska, know anything about it?” 1982
From the short-lived “Police Squad” TV series, Clark pokes fun of his youthful appearance and his knack for understanding teenage trends. At the time of this filming, he was 53.
The Jacksons, 1979 Only Dick Clark would ask the Jacksons, “Who’s the boss?” The whole world knew that Michael Jackson was the most important one, but he diplomatically speaks to all of the members, only pausing to ask MJ a quick question about how he likes being in movies.
Pink Floyd, 1967
One of Clark’s most endearing traits was that he presented himself so squarely but was able to talk to the weirdest of musicians (seriously, was there any musician weirder than Syd Barrett?). Serious kudos again for engaging with each musician.
Run DMC, 1985
As new trends emerged, Clark made sure to feature the hottest acts within these genres on “Bandstand.” And his ability to relate to new artists is effortless, as seen here in this interview footage.
Beastie Boys, 1987
Dick Clark was never one to suffer fools. Even though the Beastie Boys are no fools, they certainly acted like it on this “Bandstand” appearance. Clark is polite about the broken microphone at the end of “Fight for Your Right (to Party),” but when MCA compliments his jacket, Clark is able to quickly fire off a retort and escort them off shortly after.
Madonna, 1984
Clark’s ability to get good quotes out of his interview subject can’t be overstated. Madonna told him at the beginning of 1984 that her ambition for that year was to “rule the world.” Within a few months, she basically did.
