Pioneering Southern California Radio DJ Art Laboe Has Died

Art Laboe, the pioneering DJ credited with helping end segregation in Southern California, has died. He was 97. Laboe died Friday night after catching pneumonia, said Joanna Morones, a spokesperson for Laboe's production company, Dart Entertainment. Laboe's last show was produced last week and broadcast Sunday night.

Laboe is credited with helping end segregation in Southern California by organizing live DJ shows at drive-in eateries that attracted whites, Blacks and Latinos who danced to rock-n-roll and shocked an older generation still listening to Frank Sinatra and Big Band music.

Laboe is also credited with coining the "oldies, but goodies" phrase. Read more at NPR...

It is with deep sadness we report the passing of legend Art Laboe, he was 97. He died peacefully at his home in Palm Springs, CA on Friday night, October 7, 2022 after a short case of pneumonia.

Condolences to Art’s legions of fans, family, friends, and colleagues. pic.twitter.com/RN6UR3ONpk

— Art Laboe (@ArtLaboe) October 10, 2022

Baby Bash said it best, Art definitely had SUPER POWERS! 🙏🏽🕊️✨ What song are you dedicating to the late legend Art Laboe?! 💯 #RIP pic.twitter.com/iPE1Kg1Bhl

— 935 KDAY (@935KDAY) October 11, 2022

It is with great sadness we say goodbye to our long time family member, Art Laboe. We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends. Thank you for all the many years and amazing times you spent with us here at 93.5 KDAY! #RIP Art Laboe 🕊️🙏🏽🕊️
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📸: Getty Images pic.twitter.com/iXAWJUyxBb

— 935 KDAY (@935KDAY) October 10, 2022

We are crushed to share that Art Laboe has passed away after a life long career in radio that touched so many lives up and down California. He will be immensely missed by his radio fam and his loyal listeners. pic.twitter.com/o89p8nvkTV

— Benztown (@benztownradio) October 10, 2022