Jim Ladd, Radio Legend and SiriusXM Personality, Dies at 75

Jim Ladd, a radio personality who inspired Tom Petty's song "The Last DJ," passed away on December 17 at the age of 75. Ladd had a legendary career that included working at KNAC, 95.5 KLOS, KMET, and SiriusXM. He achieved No.1 ratings for nine years and interviewed industry greats for his show Innerview. The cause of his death is yet to be determined.

Ladd started his career as a freeform rock DJ and producer in 1969 at KNAC, before moving to 95.5 KLOS in 1971. After four years, he joined KMET in 1975 for nine years, during which he enjoyed No.1 ratings in his time slot for eight years. During that time, Ladd created, hosted, and produced the nationally syndicated show Innerview. It was a first-of-its-kind radio program that aired on over 160 radio stations. For 12 years, Ladd interviewed and shone a spotlight on the cream of the crop of artists, including John Lennon, Pink Floyd, U2, Joni Mitchell, Stevie Nicks, the Eagles, Led Zeppelin, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.

Ladd was honored with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on May 6, 2005, for his lifelong dedication and contributions to entertainment. The Hollywood Arts Council celebrated Ladd's accomplishments two years later with the Media Arts Award. He joined SiriusXM in 2011. Ladd leaves behind his wife, writer, poet, and musician Helene Hodge-Ladd.

By Anita Johnson-Brown|The Los Angeles News

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