Art Laboe was a legendary DJ known for coining the phrase “Oldies but Goodies,” and who was among the first to play Black and Latin music.
- Died: Friday, October 7, 2022. (Who else died on October 7?)
- Details of death: Died from pneumonia at the age of 97.
- We invite you to share condolences for Art Laboe in our Guest Book.
Pioneering DJ
Art Laboe started his DJ career in San Francisco and really made a name for himself when he became a top jockey in Los Angeles during the early rock era of the 1950s. He was one of the first to play rock music in Southern California and coined the phrase “Oldies but Goodies,” which was the title of compilation albums he created. He was among the first to promote Black and Latin music which helped desegregate music venues. He started a live broadcast of his show at Scrivner’s Drive-In where kids would come to dance. The crowds became so large that he moved the show to El Monte Legion stadium. Laboe was also known for a love song call-in show for those wanting to make dedications. He was on the airwaves in Southern California for over 70 years and he was still doing a show in syndication the week before he passed away.
Notable Quote
“I listened to soap operas. I listened to news. I listened to all the announcements.” “I was enthralled with this box that talked.” – He told the Los Angeles Times in 2009
Tributes to Art Laboe
Full Obituary: Los Angeles Times
