For more than six decades, legendary disc jockey Art Laboe served as the musical voice of the West Coast, pioneering a unique radio format that bridged communities, generations, and cultures. Credited with coining and trademarking the phrase “oldies but goodies,” Laboe transformed late-night radio into an emotional sanctuary through his iconic request and dedication segments. His show allowed listeners—often separated by geography, incarceration, or deployments—to send heartfelt messages accompanied by timeless soundtracks. The most requested songs on his airwaves evolved into an enduring subculture, forming the definitive soundtrack of sweet soul, doo-wop, and Chicano lowrider culture.
The Anthems of Devotion
Among the hundreds of tracks that graced his playlists, a select few became permanent staples, requested night after night by loyal listeners. At the absolute apex of these requests stands “Angel Baby” by Rosie and the Originals. Released in 1960, the track features a haunting, raw vocal performance by teenage singer Rosalie Hamlin. The slow, hypnotic rhythm and themes of innocent, unconditional love made it the ultimate song for young lovers looking to declare their commitment over the radio waves.
Another monumental favorite is “Dedicated to the One I Love” by The Shirelles. The title itself perfectly mirrored the core premise of Laboe’s program. Listeners used the song to vocalize deep affection, making it a universal anthem for long-distance relationships. Similarly, “I’m Your Puppet” by James and Bobby Purify frequently dominated the phone lines. Its upbeat yet smooth melody served as a sweet, lighthearted proclamation of romantic devotion, illustrating how deeply one person could be captivated by another.
Soulful Dispatches and Sweet Harmonies
The musical tapestry woven by Laboe relied heavily on the rich vocal harmonies of mid-century R&B and soul. Groups like The Temprees achieved legendary status on his show with tracks like “Love… Can Be So Wonderful.” The song’s soaring falsetto and lush arrangement captured the euphoric heights of romance, ensuring its place on the most-requested list for decades.
Billy Stewart’s “I Do Love You” and “Sitting in the Park” provided a perfect blend of rhythmic soul and relatable storytelling. The latter, with its narrative of waiting anxiously for a loved one, resonated deeply with listeners experiencing the bittersweet ache of separation. Additionally, Brenton Wood’s “Me and You” offered a smooth, mid-tempo groove that couples routinely claimed as “their song,” encapsulating the intimate, private world that music could build for two people.
The Sound of Heartbreak and Longing
While many requests celebrated newfound or enduring love, Laboe’s show also acted as a comforting embrace for those nursing broken hearts or navigating difficult separations. “Since I Don’t Have You” by The Skyliners epitomized this emotional depth. The operatic despair in the lead vocals perfectly matched the sentiments of individuals sending dedications to ex-partners or distant loves, turning personal longing into collective art.
Bloodstone’s “Natural High” brought a distinctly smooth, 1970s soulful vulnerability to the airwaves, while tracks like “Try Me” by James Brown laid bare raw, desperate pleas for reconciliation. These songs allowed callers to express vulnerability that they might otherwise struggle to articulate in words. By broadcasting these emotional dispatches alongside such evocative tracks, Laboe created a communal space where listeners discovered they were never truly alone in their sorrow.
A Lasting Cultural Legacy
The phenomenon of Art Laboe’s most requested songs extends far beyond simple nostalgia; it represents a vital piece of American cultural history. By playing these specific tracks, Laboe helped cultivate a distinct musical identity that unified diverse neighborhoods across California and the Southwest. The music he championed became synonymous with lowrider car culture, family gatherings, and weekend cruise nights, passing down from grandparents to grandchildren as a treasured heritage.
Though the legendary broadcaster passed away in 2022, the playlist he curated through decades of listener input remains immortal. The most requested songs of his era continue to be celebrated on digital playlists, tribute radio programs, and at car shows across the country. These timeless melodies stand as an enduring monument to a radio pioneer who understood that a song, combined with a heartfelt dedication, possesses the extraordinary power to keep people connected forever.
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