Watching the ball drop in Times Square on New Year’s Eve will never be the same again, since the death of Dick Clark this year. Dick was the founder of the American Music Awards, so it only seems fitting that  Ryan Seacrest and Stevie Wonder planned a touching performance, dedicated to the late, great Dick.

Stevie performed a medley of hit songs including “My Cherie Amour,” “You Are The Sunshine Of My Life” and “Sir Duke,” while Ryan said some touching words of tribute to his “mentor.” Ryan had previously said of Dick, “He was a mentor, friend and a wonderful advocate for popular music.”

At the awards show, Ryan spoke kindly about Dick. He admitted that he “was in awe of his star quality” and that Dick “loved the power of music.” He said that “the AMAs on its 40th anniversary still reflects Dick’s vision” and that he wanted to “use music to celebrate his life.” Cue Stevie Wonder!

Stevie’s performance was sweet and appropriate as pictures of Dick emerged on a screen behind him. Stevie also spoke fondly of his late friend Dick, as he said he will “remember his friendship and his kindness.” It really was the perfect way to pay tribute to one of the world’s greatest entertainers.

What do YOU think of the tribute to Dick Clark, HollywoodLifers?

– Eleanore Hutch

More American Music Awards News:

1. Justin Bieber Brings Mom To AMAs Without Selena Gomez
2. Usher Blows The Roof Off With Sexy AMA Performance
3. 2012 American Music Award Winners: Justin Bieber & More — Full List

The incredible Dick Clark died of a massive heart attack at the age of 82 today, April 18.

And Hollywood is very saddened by the news.

“Rest in peace, Dick Clark. Thank you for the countless memories. You will be missed.” — Janet Jackson

“I am deeply saddened by the loss of my dear friend Dick Clark. He has truly been one of the greatest influences in my life…My thoughts and prayers are with his family,” Ryan Seacrest tweeted .

“It is a very sad day to know we’ve lost a legend like Dick Clark. You will be dearly missed Mr. Clark.” RHOBH Adrienne Maloof.

“RIP Dick Clark. What a legend …” — Sophia Bush tweeted .

“RIP Dick Clark. Being able to do the New Year’s special w him was an honor. A TV pioneer and extraordinary business man. God Bless.” — Wayne Brady

“REST IN PEACE to the DICK CLARK!! U were pioneer n a good man!! Thank u sir” — Snoop Dogg

“RIP Dick Clark! The broadcasting legend will remain a teenager in our memory forever. #Bandstand” — Bravo’s Andy Cohen tweeted

“Sad to hear about the passing of Dick Clark! His contribution to music and the platform he gave people will always be remembered.” — Michelle Williams

What do you think, HollywoodLifers? Are you saddened by the news? Weigh in below.

– Nicole Karlis

Hollywood lost an incredible icon this morning, as TMZ reports that Dick Clark died of a massive heart attack after undergoing an outpatient procedure at St. Jude’s hospital in Los Angeles.

Throughout his illustrious career, Dick served as the host of New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, American Bandstand and Pyramid. He had the pleasure of introducing countless legendary performers to Americans for the first time on national television, including the Jackson 5 seen in a video below.

Levon Helm Dead: The Band Singer Dies At 71

Dick originally retired from hosting New Year’s Rockin’ Eve after having a very serious stroke in 2004, which was marked the beginning of his declining health. Ryan Seacrest took over hosting duties, though Dick joined him as co-host from 2005 to 2011.

Our thoughts are with Dick’s family, especially wife Kari Wigton, during this difficult time.

Click here to view the embedded video.

We all grew up watching Dick on TV, so head down to the comments section and share your personal memories of the host.

Other tragic celebrity passings:

1. Mike Wallace: Dead At 93
2. Monkees Singer Davy Jones Dead At 66
3. Whitney Houston: Dead At 48

There’s nothing quite like introducing your son to the family business. Just ask Jennifer Hudson, who brought her little 16-month-old son David Otunga Jr. (dad, and Jennifer’s fiancé, is WWE wrestler David Otunga) along with her to a recording session in Burbank, CA. The little one stuck by mom’s side as she continued work on her new album, her first since her self-titled 2008 debut. But, we think he’s a tad too young to be going to work already. What do you think HollyMoms?As much as the Oscar winner’s (for the 2006 hit, Dreamgirls) singing talents has put her front and center, it’s been her newly svelte post-baby figure that has us all talking.

Read about how Jennifer is moving back to her home town of Chicago!

“I don’t want to lose any more weight, and you’re never going to see me skinny,” the 29-year-old said last year after shrinking from a size 16 to a size 6 on Weight Watchers. “I think this is a good, natural size for me. It’s not a diet, it’s really a way of living that teaches you better skills. For years I felt like I could never have ice cream, but I can eat ice cream occasionally now!” It’s always refreshing to read about a star who actually admits to eating something other than lettuce!

Jennifer, who is already talking about having another baby, will be showing off that amazing figure on New Year’s Eve, when she performs from Los Angeles on the annual Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve special, with Ryan Seacrest. We’re going to tune in! Are you?

- Roger Singer