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| Russ O'Hara |
Russ O’Hara, a Los Angeles radio personality known for his energetic style and deep ties to the city's vibrant music scene, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy that spanned decades of broadcasting.
Born Russell Eugene Nealeigh in Glendale, California, O’Hara's career took him across Southern California airwaves and beyond, where he became a familiar voice for generations of listeners.
O’Hara's career was marked by multiple returns to iconic Los Angeles outlets, reflecting his enduring appeal:
- KRLA (AM 1110): His longest association, with stints from 1969–1972, 1981–1982, and 1992–1993. At the original KRLA, he was a staple during its progressive rock phase, broadcasting from the station's historic Pasadena studios.
- KROQ (FM 106.7): A brief but notable run in the early 1970s, where he helped pioneer the station's edgy, album-oriented rock sound that would later define New Wave and alternative radio.
- Other LA-Area Stations: He also aired on KGFJ (soul and R&B focus), KKDJ (a progressive rock innovator in the 1970s), and KEZY (Top 40 in Orange County), showcasing his versatility across formats.
Beyond Los Angeles, O’Hara's voice reached audiences in Santa Maria, San Bernardino, Palm Desert, and even Tucson, Arizona. He was particularly celebrated for introducing legendary acts at major venues, including:Janis Joplin at the Hollywood Bowl. The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, and Three Dog Night at various concerts.
These moments cemented his status as a cultural bridge between radio and live music during the rock explosion of the 1960s and '70s.