Los Angeles radio icon Jim Ladd, who was immortalized in Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers' 2002 song "The Last DJ," tragically passed away on Sunday at the age of 75 due to a sudden heart attack.

Ladd, a prominent figure in the Los Angeles music scene, held positions at various radio stations, including KNAC, KMET, and KLOS. He was revered as the last freeform DJ in the country, with the freedom to handpick his own song selections.

Following his departure from KLOS in 2011, Ladd quickly found a new home on SiriusXM's Deep Tracks channel, where he remained until his untimely demise. Throughout his career spanning many decades, he conducted acclaimed interviews with legendary artists such as John Lennon, Pink Floyd, Stevie Nicks, and Led Zeppelin.

The news of Ladd's passing prompted an outpouring of tributes, including one from John Densmore, drummer of The Doors, who expressed his sorrow on social media, saying, "'The Last DJ' has crossed the tracks. There wasn't a more soulful spinner of music. The songs he played were running through his blood; he cared so much for rock n' roll. Irreplaceable... a very sad day, which can only be handled by carrying his spirit forward."

Robby Krieger, another member of The Doors, also paid his respects, reminiscing about Ladd's unwavering support for the band, even during challenging times. Krieger reflected, "Rest in peace, Jim Ladd. He was the best friend in radio The Doors ever had. Even when people forgot about us in the late '70s, he kept playing our music."

Beginning his career at KNAC in 1969, Ladd quickly cemented himself as one of Southern California's leading rock voices, riding the wave of the burgeoning FM radio scene. In an interview with Michael Simone, he credited his mentors and influential figures like Martin Luther King, John Lennon, and Jim Morrison for shaping his approach to the industry.

Among Ladd's closest friends was Roger Waters, with whom he had a longstanding friendship. Ladd even portrayed a rebel DJ on Waters' 1987 album, Radio K.A.O.S., and joined him on the accompanying tour, Radio K.A.O.S. On the Road.

Ladd's return to KLOS in 1997 marked a significant chapter in his career, where he remained for 14 years. However, when he was let go from the station after it was acquired by Cumulus in 2011, he bid farewell by playing Pink Floyd's "Shine On Your Crazy Diamond," as reported by Billboard.

To honor his legacy, flowers will be placed on Ladd's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Tuesday at 11 a.m. Ladd received this prestigious recognition in 2005. Ana Martinez, the producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame star ceremonies, paid tribute to Ladd, stating, "His legendary voice and unparalleled contribution to the world of radio have left an indelible mark on the industry. Jim's passion for music and his unique ability to connect with his listeners will always be remembered fondly."

SiriusXM is currently airing tributes to Ladd, who is survived by his wife Helene, on Deep Tracks and other classic rock channels, honoring his extraordinary career and impact on the radio industry.