Remembering Jed Gould: A Trailblazer in Music Broadcasting
Jed Gould, known to many as Jed the Fish, was a groundbreaking disc jockey whose influence felt profoundly in the alternative rock and New Wave scenes. Gould passed away on April 14, 2023, at the age of 69 at his Pasadena, California home due to aggressive small-cell lung cancer, as confirmed by close friend Rudy Koerner.
A Unique Musical Voice
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Gould became a beloved figure among the youth of Los Angeles, particularly those from Generation X. His unconventional humor and extensive musical knowledge helped promote iconic bands like The Cure, Depeche Mode, and The Offspring while he was a pivotal force at KROQ-FM, a pioneering alternative rock radio station.
Impact on the Radio Landscape
Gould’s presence at KROQ started in the late 1970s, marking a revolution in radio programming. At a time when mainstream FM rock was dominated by corporate entities, he helped introduce a refreshing format known as the “Roq of the ’80s,” featuring emerging sounds from diverse New Wave artists such as Talking Heads and local bands like X and The Go-Go’s.
Innovative Broadcasting Style
The characteristically quirky voice of Gould, who often referred to himself as “Jeddum Fishum,” brought a lively energy to radio. He was celebrated for integrating humorous elements into his broadcasts, employing quirky sound bites and irreverent jokes, creating a light-hearted on-air personality that listeners cherished. He summarized his approach succinctly: “We were leading the way but had no idea.”
Legacy of Musical Discovery
As the afternoon drive host, Gould curated a platform for introducing new musical talents. His expertise allowed him to world-premiere new tracks, as noted by Andy Schuon, a former KROQ program director. Notably, he became the first DJ to play The Offspring’s breakout hit, “Come Out and Play,” which had a significant impact on the band’s trajectory.
A Life of Challenges and Perseverance
Born on July 15, 1955, in Los Angeles, Gould’s journey was not without its struggles. Despite facing personal challenges, including battles with addiction, he maintained a commitment to his craft. He candidly discussed his past, noting a transformation in his approach to broadcasting upon achieving sobriety: “I’d developed my crazy style as a result of getting high. But now it comes out of being me.” His unique style resonated with listeners, and he worked at KROQ until 2012, later transitioning to other local stations.
A Lasting Influence
Jed Gould’s contributions to music broadcasting are fondly remembered by colleagues and fans alike. In social media tributes, Jimmy Kimmel and Adam Carolla referred to him as “a legend” and “an icon,” respectively. Gould’s ability to keep the essence of music alive in his presentations exemplified his dedication to the radio industry.
Survived by his half-brother Tony Chatterton, Jed the Fish leaves behind a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of broadcasters. His philosophy encapsulated the joyful spirit of radio, as he remarked, “When a DJ is playing music we expect you to dance to, I think it’s important for the DJ to dance.”
