7 Black Entertainers Who Became American Idols after ‘American Bandstand’ – Black Enterprise

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7 Black Entertainers Who Became American Idols after ‘American Bandstand’

On Wednesday, April 18, 2012, Dick Clark passed away at the age of 82 after suffering a heart attack. Over the course of his storied career, the legendary radio/TV personality entertained millions as he rang in countless New Years Rockin’ Eve specials in New York City’s Times Square and a perpetual game show host. Most notably, Clark was the host of the classic American Bandstand, which broadcast new and popular musicians into the homes of countless viewers. Among the many greats that were featured on the show; Clark also helped break racial barriers by giving many African American artists their first TV appearances.

In the wake of Clark’s passing, BlackEnterprise.com highlights some of the musical legends of color that have the American Bandstand host to thank for one of their big breaks. As a bonus, click the celebrities' name to see video of their American Bandstand appearances.—Anslem Samuel
Anslem Samuel, Senior Producer, has been a culture critic and entertainment journalist for over 10 years. After a four-year stint as Culture Editor at The Source, the New York native became the founding Editor-in-Chief of The Ave, an independent quarterly publication that combined entertainment, social issues and politics. From there, he served as the Senior Editor for XXL magazine for three years before moving up the ranks to Digital Content Director for XXLMag.com. Also heading up an award-winning relationship blog, he now brings his lifestyle expertise to BlackEnterprise.com

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