JIM LADD

Few disc jockeys are immortalized forever by record album titles and song names, but Jim Ladd is one of them.

The Southern California on-air personality was dubbed “The Last D.J.” by Tom Petty in 2002 by a title track of the same name. Jim Ladd was first heard in Los Angeles in 1967 on KNAC-FM, before joining KLOS FM in 1969 where he played album-oriented rock songs and provided commentary on them on the station until 1975. He joined archrival station KMET FM in 1975, staying on the station until it changed formats in 1987. He returned to KLOS FM to host an evening program on the station for 24 more years, often offering commentary on culture in addition to discussing the music he chose to play. In 2011, he joined SiriusXM as an on-air personality, staying on air until he passed away in December 2023.   

Jim Ladd gained national prominence and recognition as host of InnerView, which aired weekly on 160+ radio stations for twelve years.  

Ladd’s work earned him long lasting relationships with a long list of rock music musicians, including Roger Waters of Pink Floyd. He was remembered in The Grammy’s telecast in 2024 for his prominence and support of musicians.    

Jim Ladd’s 50 years on broadcast and satellite radio has been recognized by a wide number of organizations, including receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

In 2024, Jim Ladd received a Legends Induction into the Radio Hall of Fame.