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RIAA Reaction to the Passing of Dick Clark

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WASHINGTON – Below is a comment from Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) Chairman and CEO Cary Sherman on the death of Dick Clark:

“We have lost a true American icon, trailblazer and legend in Dick Clark.  More music, over multiple generations of fans, has been brought into hearts, minds and homes than perhaps any other figure in history – including many of our most beloved artists in their very first television appearances, especially on the singular American Bandstand.  It is one thing to champion music and simply change the landscape – it’s quite another thing to do so for more than 60 years.

“He was of course a brilliant businessman.  From the American Music Awards, ‘Rockin New Year’s Eve’ and Top 40 Countdown to Emmy-Award-winning television shows such as Jeopardy and $100,000 Pyramid, he is simply part of the American fabric.  But even more so, his trademark voice, style, passion for music and seemingly eternal youth will forever be part of our consciousness.”

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The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) is the trade organization that supports and promotes the creative and financial vitality of the major music companies. Its members are the music labels that comprise the most vibrant record industry in the world. RIAA® members create, manufacture and/or distribute approximately 85% of all legitimate recorded music produced and sold in the United States.

In support of this mission, the RIAA works to protect the intellectual property and First Amendment rights of artists and music labels; conduct consumer, industry and technical research; and monitor and review state and federal laws, regulations and policies. The RIAA® also certifies Gold®, Platinum®, Multi- Platinum™ and Diamond sales awards as well as Los Premios De Oro y Platino™, an award celebrating Latin music sales.

Contact:
Jonathan Lamy
Cara Duckworth
Liz Kennedy
202/775-0101