Everything Music. Everything News. Everything live.

Influential L.A. Radio DJ, “Jed the Fish”, Dies at 69

2003 IFP LA FILM FESTIVAL, LOS ANGELES, AMERICA - 17 JUN 2003 06-17-03 Hollywood, Ca KROQ's Jed the Fish Centerpiece Premiere of the 2003 IFP Los Angeles Film Festival and the premiere of George Hickenlooper's Mayor of the Sunset Strip at the ArcLight Cinerama Dome. Photo ® Brian Moghadam/BEImages
Photo By: Brian Moghadam/BEI/Shutterstock

Jed “The Fish” Gould, a celebrated and eccentric radio DJ, profoundly influenced the musical landscape of Los Angeles and beyond, died on April 14, 2025. He was 69; the cause of his death was lung cancer, of which he had only recently been diagnosed. Tributes poured in from fans and colleagues alike, honoring his legacy as both a broadcaster and a cultural trailblazer. His enduring influence on the music industry and his role in shaping modern rock radio are testaments to a career that transcended airwaves. As radio continues to evolve, the legacy of Jed the Fish serves as a reminder of the profound impact a single voice can have in defining a generation’s musical journey.

Starting his career at KROQ in 1978, Gould spent the next 34 years as a formidable voice in modern rock broadcasting. Known for his unique style and irreverence, Jed the Fish became a staple in the Southern California music scene, helping to shape the tastes of a generation. His contributions to the radio industry, especially his role in popularizing alternative rock during the 1980s and 1990s, left an indelible mark on the cultural fabric of the era.

Throughout his career, Gould was more than just a DJ; he was a pioneering music curator. He introduced Southern California audiences to bands like Depeche Mode, the Cure, and the Smiths long before they achieved international acclaim. His show, “Catch of the Day,” spotlighted new and undiscovered music, providing a platform for countless artists. This approach not only cemented his status as an influencer in the alternative music scene but also greatly enhanced KROQ's reputation as a cutting-edge station. Gould’s knack for identifying musical talent and his willingness to take risks played a vital role in KROQ’s ascendancy within the competitive Los Angeles radio market.

Jed the Fish's impact went beyond the music; his offbeat and humorous on-air personality engaged listeners in a way that few others could. He set the stage for afternoon drivetime, blending eclectic music selections with a charismatic and sometimes sardonic style that resonated deeply with his audience. His memorable moments, such as cutting off Green Day’s “Basket Case” with a humorous retort, contributed to the mythos surrounding his broadcasts. Gould's shows were not just about playing music; they were about creating an auditory experience that captivated and entertained, making even routine playlists feel unique and exciting.

While Gould's professional life was filled with noteworthy achievements, he also faced personal challenges. Notably, he made headlines in 1989 when he was arrested on heroin charges, an event that led him to seek recovery and subsequently inspire others with his journey. This turning point was the catalyst for the creation of “Clean and Crazy,” a program that aimed to show listeners that sobriety and creativity could coexist. His candid approach to his struggles endeared him further to his fans, adding a layer of relatability to his already popular persona.

Beyond his roles at KROQ, Gould made significant contributions to the broader radio and music community. He hosted the syndicated show “Out of Order,” which maintained his connection with the wider American audience even after his tenure at KROQ ended. His work at other stations, including KCSN and a brief stint at KLOS, demonstrated his versatility and enduring passion for radio. Gould was not only a DJ but also an artist and drummer, with creative endeavors that spanned music production and the visual arts, reflecting his diverse talents and interests.

Key Takeaways

Related Stories

Al Aumuller/New York World-Telegram and the Sun (uploaded by User:Urban), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

New Woody Guthrie Compilation Includes Recording of ‘Deportee’

A rare and culturally significant release has been announced for fans of music history and socially conscious songwriting. The release…

Iron Maiden - Nicko McBrain Sweden Rock Festival, Solvesborg, Sweden - 07 Jun 2018

Retired Iron Maiden Drummer, Nicko McBrain, Announces July 2025 Shows

Nicko McBrain, the renowned drummer from Iron Maiden, is poised to hit the stage once more, albeit in a new…

Jelly Roll CMA Fest 2025, Day 2, Nashville, Tennessee, USA - 06 Jun 2025

Jelly Roll is Not Happy with Logan Paul’s Interruption at WWE ‘Smackdown’

The intersection of music and wrestling has always offered unique entertainment dynamics, but the recent WWE SmackDown event in Nashville…

Singer Emmanuel Kelly (R), English singer Chris Martin (C) of Coldplay, US singer Doja Cat (C-L), Colombian singer J Balvin (2-L), and Nigerian singer Tems (L) perform during the halftime show of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Final match between Chelsea FC and Paris Saint-Germain, in East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA, 13 July 2025. FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Final - Chelsea vs PSG, East Rutherford, USA - 13 Jul 2025

Watch Coldplay & Others Perform at The FIFA World Cup Halftime Show

The FIFA Club World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, witnessed a historic halftime show that…

Singer/musician MICHAEL MCDONALD formally of THE DOOBIE BROTHERS seen at the Ninth Annual Love Rocks NYC Benefit Concert For God's Love We Deliver held at the Beacon Theater. 9th Annual Love Rocks NYC Benefit Concert For God's Love We Deliver, New York, USA - 06 Mar 2025

Michael McDonald Wants to Be a Doobie Brother Indefinitely

Michael McDonald, an iconic figure in the rock music scene, has been a quintessential part of The Doobie Brothers. His…

Kevin Parke of the psychedelic music project band, Tame Impala NOS Primavera Sound Festival, Porto, Portugal - 09 Jun 2022

Tame Impala Teases New Music on Social Media

Tame Impala’s Kevin Parker is creating a buzz in the music world with hints of new material. Recent updates across…

This Is Spinal Tap, David Kaff, Christopher Guest

Spinal Tap Keyboardist, David Kaff, Dies at 79

Recently, the music world bid farewell to David Kaff, a versatile musician and actor most renowned for his role as…

Don Barnes, 38 Special in concert at Celebrate Virginia Live!, Fredericksburg, Virginia, America - 20 May 2011

38 Special to Release First Album in Over 20 Years

In a spectacular culmination of five decades in the music industry, legendary southern rock band 38 Special is celebrating its…

Nikki Sixx 'Faster' film premiere, Los Angeles, America - 22 Nov 2010

Nikki Sixx Shares Why Mötley Crüe Wasn’t at Ozzy’s Last Show

In the vibrant world of rock music, few names hold as much legendary status as Ozzy Osbourne and his contributions…