Dick Clark: An Incredible Life In Photos

Dick Clark—the iconic host of 'American Bandstand' and one of the music industry's most important figures—passed away on Wednesday, April 18th, after suffering a heart attack. Here is a look back on some of the most iconic and awesome moments of his career.

Dick Clark pumps up Ryan Seacrest during the American Bandstand Tribute at the 2010 Daytime Emmy Awards in Las Vegas, June 27, 2010.

Always the family man, Clark refused to miss his midnight kiss.

In 2005, Dick Clark returned to 'New Year's Rockin' Eve' for his first television appearance after suffering a debilitating stroke in 2004. Missing only one year of hosting, he returned with co-host Ryan Seacrest. Clark's return and continued work until his death became a symbol of hope to millions of stroke victims.

The Jackson 5 made their network television debut on 'American Bandstand' in 1970. Michael Jackson, a frequent Bandstand guest, returned for 'American Bandstand's 50th... A Celebration' and performed "Dangerous."

"I played records, the kids danced, and America watched," was how Clark once described 'American Bandstand.'

Clark, always ahead of the times, invited the Village People to perform their hit song 'YMCA' on Bandstand in 1979, giving the band their first big break into mainstream America. They were just one of the many acts that returned in 2002, for the show's 50th celebration special.

KISS performed 'Rock n Roll All Nite' for Dick Clark and the rest of America in the late '70s. The band, minus Ace Frehley, returned to the stage to celebrate the show's 50th birthday. Here Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons help KISS-ify Clark!

In 1998, at the height of their fame, pop sensations the Spice Girls performed “Spice Up Your Life,” “Too Much” and “Wannabe” on 'New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.'

Dick Clark with Izzy Stradlin, Duff McKagan and Slash of Guns N' Roses at the MTV Awards Nominations in 1988.

Just months after releasing the debut album 'Bon Jovi,' the band performed on 'Bandstand.'

Dick Clark greets Cyndi Lauper, who performed chart topper "Time After Time" in 1984.

Clark talks with Adams' after the singer performed hits from his newly released album 'Cuts Like a Knife'.

The fitness guru joined Clark and enthusiastic Banstanders in 1982

Dick Clark asks members of the studio audience their opinions on a new release in 1980.

Dick Clark's 'New Year's Rockin' Eve' was an American tradition, spanning over 40 years.

Dick Clark joins Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash at the 1977 American Music Awards. The AMAs were created by Clark in 1973. Unlike the Grammys, AMAs are determined by a poll of music buyers.

Dick Clark hosted the game show, originally titled '$10,000 Pyramid,' from 1973-1988.

Prior to becoming Tony Manero or Danny Zuko, John Travolta had a Billboard Top 100 hit with "Let Her In."

Clark brought blues to the masses when B.B. King performed on 'American Bandstand'.

Chubby Checker performed the smash hit "The Twist" for Clark's 'Bandstand' audience after the song's writer and original performer, Hank Ballard, was not available.

The only stars Clark coveted for his show in those early years but could not get were the Beatles and Ricky Nelson.

With nearly 20 hit singles under his belt, Little Richard performed on American Bandstand in 1965.

With guests like Annette Funicello, 'Bandstand' quickly became the most popular dance show of all time and the cornerstone of ABC's afternoon line-up.

Clark hosted 'American Bandstand' from 1956 until its final season in 1989.