R.I.P.: Craig Carpenter, Former SoCal Radio Personality

Craig Carpenter

Southern California radio personality Craig "Sea" Carpenter, a distinctive voice on the region’s legendary rock stations during the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, died June 1 after a short illness. He was survived by his children, siblings and extended family.

Carpenter built a decades-long career at some of Southern California’s most influential stations, including KLOS, KMET, KROQ, KNAC, KNX and KEZY. Known for his smooth delivery and deep knowledge of rock music, he became a familiar presence to generations of listeners during radio’s rock-and-roll heyday. His final radio home was at KOCI in Orange County.

Born in Los Angeles, Carpenter spent part of his childhood in Florida after his father’s transfer with the U.S. Air Force, then returned to California as a teenager. 

His early passion for radio led to his first professional job at KLOS and a career spanning multiple stations. Beyond his on-air work, Carpenter produced and hosted a radio interview series that featured rock artists in their homes, giving listeners intimate glimpses into the musicians’ lives.