Welcome to American Bandstand! This was reality TV before that word became fashionable. It aired in 1952 and was known as Bandstand. Dick Clark joined the show in 1956, as host and producer. He changed the name to American Bandstand. Bandstand featured teenagers dancing to Top 40 music. There was always one act who appeared in person. They lip-synced, and I thought they were live! Dick introduced America to acts ranging from Jerry Lee Lewis to Run DMC This photo is from 1970. Dick’s talking to Myrna Horowitz, one of the original dancers from the 1952 season. This was Bandstand’s 18th anniversary. American Bandstand ran from 1952 until 1989. It was a HUGE part of my life, especially when I was a teen. I would have LOVED to have been on American Bandstand. Dick Clark was known as America’s oldest teenager, but he was also a great businessman. In 1972 he started Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve. Before that there was only Guy Lombardo, and he was for old people! I was 13 in 1972. Then in 1973 Dick started The American Music Awards. Before that pop music really wasn’t recognized. This photo was from 2002. It was American Bandstand's 50th anniversary reunion. I discovered when I was researching this post, that Dick and Ryan Seacrest had plans to revive American Bandstand in 2005. It didn’t happen – Dick had a severe stroke in late 2004. I remember praying for Dick that year. He was a big part of my life. My husband’s too . . . I didn’t know that he used to watch bandstand. Dick and American Bandstand still influence American pop culture in shows like SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE and AMERICAN IDOL. Did you know these singers made their debut on Bandstand – Prince, Jackson 5, Sonny and Cher, and Aerosmith. Back in the day, you made it when you appeared on Bandstand. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
PS - Remember Three Dog Night from JOY TO THE WORLD? They were a featured act on 1973’s Rockin’ Eve. Now that you know about Bandstand, it’s time to hear the theme song. This is the screen shot from my search link. Click on the theme from 77-87. That’s the one I remember. It features the lyrics and voice of Barry Manilo. The original music is in the link below it.
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AuthorWhen I write, I can only have one voice in my head, mine. A little noise is fine. But too much, or worse yet, WORDS, and I must change rooms or pull out headphones. Then I can write on! Categories
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