Art Laboe, legendary radio DJ who coined the phrase 'oldies but goodies,' passed away at age 97 on October 7 due to pneumonia. His final show aired just days later on October 9, capping an extraordinary 79-year broadcasting career.

In 1957, Laboe founded Original Sound Record, Inc. and released "Oldies But Goodies: Vol. 1" in 1958, which remained on the Billboard Top 100 chart for an impressive 183 weeks.

Born Arthur Egnoian in Salt Lake City during the Great Depression, Laboe discovered his passion for radio at age eight when he received his first radio set. After attending Stanford University and serving in the U.S. Navy during WW2, he began his broadcasting career at KSAN in San Francisco, where he adopted the name 'Art Laboe.'

As one of California's pioneering DJs to play R&B and rock-n-roll music, Laboe became known for his distinctive baritone voice and popular afternoon show by 1956. He was among the select few to interview Elvis during the singer's Hollywood debut.

Laboe's call-in request format became particularly meaningful for families of incarcerated individuals in California and Arizona, who would send dedications and requests through his show. His non-judgmental approach and connection with listeners made him a beloved figure in radio broadcasting.

His legacy continues through "The Art Laboe Connection," a nightly request and dedication syndicated radio show that airs on 93.5 KDAY/Los Angeles on Sundays from 6 PM to midnight.

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