KLOS-FM Radio Host Uncle Joe Benson Dies at 76

The rock radio community is mourning Uncle Joe Benson, a legendary Southern California broadcaster whose voice defined the airwaves for generations. His family confirmed he passed away on February 24 at the age of 76. The cause of death was complications from Parkinson’s disease, Parkinson’s dementia, and injuries sustained from a recent fall.

Benson’s nearly 40-year career in Los Angeles saw him become a foundational presence on major stations like KLOS-FM, Arrow 93.1, and The Sound 103.1. He was renowned for transforming his shows into rich, narrative experiences, seamlessly blending music with behind-the-scenes stories and historical context that forged a unique bond with listeners. His path to radio stardom began humbly at a small station in Illinois, broadcasting from a trailer, before he ascended to the highly competitive LA market. KLOS-FM, a powerhouse that has been a cornerstone of West Coast rock culture since its 1969 launch, paid tribute, highlighting his interviews with "virtually every major rock musician" and his reputation as "a friend to all."

Beyond his daily on-air presence, Benson’s influence was amplified through specialty programs that became weekend rituals. Shows such as "Off the Record," "Local Licks," and the album-focused "The 7th Day" served dual purposes: they provided a crucial platform for emerging artists while satisfying dedicated fans with deep musical exploration. His expertise was further captured in the "Uncle Joe Benson’s Record Guide" book series. Characteristically, he merged his twin passions by creating the "Rock and Roll Racing Report," which wove together commentary on classic rock and motorsports. This multifaceted approach defined his career, and even a brief semi-retirement in 2017 was quickly reversed when he returned to host the nationally syndicated "Ultimate Classic Rock."

The news of his passing prompted an outpouring of respect from colleagues and the audience he served. Longtime KLOS personality Rita Wilde echoed many, calling him a "radio legend" and offering "love and respect." Media historians view Benson’s career as a bridge between FM rock's free-form origins and today's more corporately structured environment. Through these industry shifts, he retained an authentic, relatable quality that resonated deeply. As communications scholar Dr. Anya Petrov observes, "Benson exemplified the enduring value of the curator-DJ. In an era increasingly driven by data-driven playlists, his knowledgeable, personal touch maintained a vital human connection that algorithms cannot replicate." His true legacy is that of a community architect, using the shared language of rock music to build a lasting and personal fellowship with his listeners.