Comm455/History of Journalism

This past Sunday, the annual American Music Awards celebrated its 40th anniversary, with Ryan Seacrest as the show’s host.

The event had the likes of media stars Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, Usher, Nicki Minaj and Ke$ha all performing, with 9.47 million in viewership.

At this particular music awards, host Seacrest and musical icon and legend, Stevie Wonder, paid tribute to Dick Clark, who created the awards back in 1973.

Clark started the show wish a vision:

 “Let the music speak for itself”

Wonder performed hit song, “My Cherie Amour” with images of Clark appearing behind his piano, after giving a heartfelt speech about Clark and his long-time friendship, and the kindness Clark bestowed upon him always.

“I remember his love for music and his love for people. I challenge you, you as communicators, leaders, politicians, spiritual leaders: Put your love first like we musicians put our music first… Then we can be jamming until the break of dawn.”

– Stevie Wonder

Clark died earlier this year in April suffering a heart attack during a surgery to fix an enlarged prostate. He was 82-years-old.

This man will not be forgotten as his legacy lives on through the music and memories he created.

I challenge you, you as communicators, leaders, politicians, spiritual leaders: Put your love first like we musicians put our music first… Then we can be jamming until the break of dawn.”

Here is the video of Stevie Wonder commemorating Dick Clark.