Members of the hard rock community have issued the following statements regarding the death of cultural icon DICK CLARK who helped bring rock 'n' roll into the mainstream on American Bandstand, and later produced and hosted a vast range of programming from game shows to the year-end countdown in Times Square on New Year's Rockin' Eve, according to the Associated Press. He was 82.

KISS' Paul Stanley: "As a little boy I sat transfixed to our television every afternoon and Saturday night watching American Bandstand. Dick Clark was the face of rock and roll and it's best ambassador. His decades of successes both in and outside of the music industry are unparalleled. He championed KISS when others turned away and was instrumental in breaking us through his show In Concert. Through the years Dick was always available when I had a question or wanted guidance. Dick Clark was the rare exception who was a bigger person in real life than the public image or legend that was also to be his legacy. I will remember him with great respect and gratitude."

JEFF SCOTT SOTO: "RIP, a legend, a pioneer of Rock And Roll, the guy who set the bar for DJ's around the World, Dick Clark, you are an important part of history that will never be forgotten!!"

GLENN HUGHES: "RIP to old friend Dick Clark: thanx for bein' Part of our Cal Jam TV Show."

KIP WINGER: "RIP Dick Clark, we thought you'd live forever! Rockin the heavens and beyond!

THE DOORS: "We fondly remember Dick Clark, one of the original visionaries in the rock and roll business. He influenced generations of pop music lovers and his presence will be missed in the entertainment world. The Doors appeared on American Bandstand on July 22, 1967 (see their performance below). R.I.P, Dick Clark. From The Doors and everyone at JAM, Inc."

STRYPER's Michael Sweet: "RIP Dick Clark - it was an honor to perform on American Bandstand and to meet you back then. There was no one like you nor will there ever be."