Radio icon Jim Ladd, who for over 50 years championed classic rock and interviewed many of the greatest artists in his Los Angeles studios and on SiriusXM’s Deep Tracks channel, passed away on Sunday, December 17.
Tune in to Deep Tracks on channel 308 and SiriusXM’s other classic rock channels to hear special tributes about Ladd, and check back soon for programming updates. Listen to previous episodes of Ladd’s Deep Tracks show, Jim Ladd Radio Show, on the SiriusXM app.
Rock & Roll Hall of Famer and Doors drummer John Densmore remembered Ladd in a touching post on social media.
“‘The Last DJ’ has crossed the tracks,” Densmore wrote. “There wasn’t a more soulful spinner of music. The songs he played were running through his blood, he cared so much for rock n’ roll. Irreplaceable… a very sad day, which can only be handled by carrying his spirit forward.”
A dedicated patron of the arts and steadfast advocate for the importance of freeform rock radio, Ladd’s voice touched the hearts of millions.
Throughout his career, Ladd’s baritone voice cascaded from High In The Hollywood Hills, championing the best rock & roll had to offer. During his stints at KMET, KLOS and SiriusXM, he interviewed countless artists, from John Lennon, Pink Floyd and Stevie Nicks to Led Zeppelin, the Eagles and Joni Mitchell. The insight and passion Ladd held for the genre of rock & roll shines through in each of these conversations.
Along with the admiration of his longtime listeners, whom he has endearingly labelled ‘The Tribe,’ Ladd has been numerously recognized for his contributions to radio, music, and culture. Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters was inspired by Ladd’s work and asked him to be involved in 1987’s Radio K.A.O.S. where he played himself as a rebel DJ. Ladd also joined Waters on the album’s highly touted world tour and starred in all three MTV music videos.
Ladd is remembered by his family, friends and the millions of listeners who held his words dearly.
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