requiescat in pace dick clark

Make me a promise – when I die don’t let any corporate types write kind words about me – it’ll be a “statement” written either badly (even if its sincere) or by some PR flak. It would be real, it likely won’t have any personality. And that would be sad. This week I’ve seen a bit too much of that upon the death of a broadcasting legend.

Everybody wants their life to mean something – everybody wants to believe that something they did in their life mattered to at least one person, maybe more. For most people, like parents, they want their life to have meant something to their children and, in fact, that their legacy would be the good person their child or children have become.

Most of us don’t believe our lives will impact a generation or even longer than that. Having reflected it a bit now after his death, I don’t think Dick Clark felt that way either.

But his life’s work DID impact millions of people and it affected the culture of America.

I think Dick’s life work was something that he enjoyed and certainly made money on – but the initial intent I do not think was to leave a wonderful legacy. But that is what Dick Clark did. And there is one sure way to tell.

When you first read about his death, did you gasp or say outloud “oh no!” like I did? Were you genuinely saddened, like a well liked neighbor had died. Did his death stick in your mind a bit?

That’s my litmus test for legacy. I think alot of people felt that way about the man who voiced so many radio shows, commercials, TV shows and more. And what a voice.

The United Stations Radio Network (which was around when I was in radio – and I played more than a couple of them when I was in radio) has a great list of quotes and remembrances. I found myself especially touched by, of all people, Snoop Dog’s quote – it just read as so sincere and respectful from a performer who strikes me as neither. Great videos too.

But my memory is this song which summarizes American Bandstand (Dick’s fourth ‘baby’ he said) and always leaves me with a smile – which I think is how Dick Clark would have liked it. Thanks Dick for everything.

2 Responses to “requiescat in pace dick clark”

  1. Wow, Peter. What a moving tribute and true in every way. Just watching that clip brings me back to my childhood. American Bandstand was such fun!

    I’ll always remember Dick Clark as a gentleman, too. He was willing to promote others. He encouraged them to shine. And as I write those words, I think of you, too.

  2. Well Lisa that may be one of the kindest things anyone has ever said to me and while undeserving, I appreciate the gracious compliment.

    Best always,
    – Peter