Chuck Niles died on March 15, 2004 at the age of 76.
If you were ever involved in the jazz & blues scene, especially in Southern California, you should recognize that name. For fifty years he was “Mr. Jazz” for radio stations KKGO, KLON (now KKJZ) and others. He was a real musician’s DJ and the only one so far to have a star on the Hollywood Boulevard Walk of Fame.
You can listen live, online to KKJZ, which is doing a Chuck Niles Tribute; songs written about him and his favorites. This station is 24/7, listener-supported and commercial-free, a real delight. And in case you thought jazz was a limited art form, just listen to the variety they play.
I’m sure Chuck is now interviewing the Duke, Bird and Lady Day on KHVN.