SANTA MONICA (CBS)  — President Barack Obama joined the chorus of Americans mourning today’s death of broadcasting pioneer Dick Clark in Santa Monica, saying the “American Bandstand” host changed the landscape of television.

“With `American Bandstand,’ he introduced decades’ worth of viewers to the music of our times,” Obama said in a statement released by the White House.

“He reshaped the television landscape forever as a creative and innovative producer,” he said. “And, of course, for 40 years, we welcomed him into our homes to ring in the New Year. But more important than his groundbreaking achievements was the way he made us feel — as young and vibrant and optimistic as he was.

“As we say a final `so long’ to Dick Clark, America’s oldest teenager, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends — which number far more than he knew.”

IMAGES: Dick Clark’s Amazing Life In Pictures (1929-2012)

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