But honestly, Dick Clark never spoke to me, even though American Bandstand broke so many barriers in its long, successful run. And Dick Clark has always seemed like a decent guy, to say the least.
That said, Levon Helm passed away today, and while he had no where near the cultural impact of Dick Clark -- and won't receive nearly as much attention in death -- he was at the heart and soul of The Band, which, IMO, remains a timeless representation of American music.
Levon Helm: May 26, 1940 - April 19, 2012