Remembering Jed the Fish: Icon of Los Angeles Radio Waves Who Spiced Up Our Afternoons

A Radio Icon: Remembering Jed the Fish

Jed the Fish, whose real name was Edwin Jed Fish Gould III, passed away on April 14, 2025, at the age of 69, leaving behind a significant legacy as one of Southern California's most influential radio personalities. Celebrated for his innovative style and ability to push boundaries, Jed transformed the airwaves at KROQ-FM, forever changing the landscape of alternative radio.

Early Beginnings

Jed began his radio journey at the tender age of 16 with KPIN-AM in Arizona. His career started on a rebellious note; he was dismissed for audibly reciting George Carlin's notorious “seven dirty words you can't say on the radio.” From these beginnings, it was clear that Jed was not interested in adhering to societal norms or the conventional rules of broadcasting.

In 1978, he joined KROQ in Los Angeles, where he would spend over 34 years shaking up the afternoon radio scene. From the start, he was known for his eclectic taste in music and his penchant for introducing innovative and emerging talent to his audience. His shows transcended the ordinary, turning into celebrated events instead of predictable programs.

The KROQ Legacy

Jed's contributions to KROQ helped launch numerous alternative bands into mainstream recognition before they even gained traction elsewhere in the world. He played a crucial role in promoting acts like Depeche Mode, Duran Duran, and The Cure, paving the way for a generation of music lovers to discover new sounds. His unique segments, such as “Catch of the Day,” showcased disorderly playlists that reflected the chaotic vibe of his personality, which listeners adored.

In addition to KROQ's local fame, Jed hosted the nationally syndicated program Out of Order, where he counted down the top ten tracks in a jumbled sequence, staying true to his signature flair for the unexpected.

A Voice of the Generation

Beyond music, Jed was a true cultural commentator who tapped into the zeitgeist of the 80s and 90s alternative movements. He understood how music intertwined with identity and rebellion, creating an emotional bond with his listeners. The soundtrack of their youth was played through his actions, enriching their experiences and galvanizing a community of fans who resonated with his outlandish and creative broadcasts.

Jed's unfiltered style was noted for pushing boundaries, leading to multiple FCC violations that he wore like badges of honor. For him, radio was an art form—an outlet for creativity where conventions were meant to be broken.

Interviews that Spoke Volumes

Throughout his illustrious career, Jed had the opportunity to interview many of music's most iconic figures. In a memorable exchange in 1995, he sat down with David Bowie in the KROQ studios, where they explored subjects of art and identity amidst the backdrop of Bowie's ever-changing music. Their conversation was frank and refreshing, capturing the whimsical nature of both men. Following the interview, Bowie signed a piece of memorabilia for Jed, leaving behind a simple yet impactful note: "Jed, it's been fun…"

Other notable guests included U2, Sting, and Elvis Costello, with each conversation unfolding in a raw, authentic, and often unpredictable manner. His presence transformed every interview into an engaging and heartfelt dialogue reflective of the charismatic individual Jed was.

A Lasting Impact

Born in Orange County, California, Jed graduated from USC's Annenberg School of Journalism, marrying his passion for radio with his foundational knowledge of media. He earned accolades such as Billboard's Modern Rock Personality of the Year and continued to impact the realm of local radio even after his departure from KROQ. Jed's iconic K-R-O-Q voice branding remains a staple on-air today, reminding listeners of his indelible influence on the radio landscape of Los Angeles.

In addition to his radio career, Jed engaged in various creative projects, including performances with renowned punk bands and art installations that challenged perceptions of sound and light. His reimagining of art in public spaces mirrored the unpredictability of his radio programs, reflecting his core belief in creative freedom.

He is survived by a rich community of listeners, artists, and collaborators who were deeply inspired by his work. Jed the Fish didn’t merely entertain; he ignited passions, sparked movements, and fostered a sense of belonging within his audience. His legacy lives on through the voices he inspired and the genres he helped popularize.

In tribute, let us remember Jed as not just a broadcaster but an innovator whose courageous spirit will echo in the hearts of many for years to come.