J.J. Jackson, one of the first VJs for MTV, died Wednesday night of an apparent heart attack in Los Angeles. He was 62 years old. Jackson debuted on MTV as one of the network’s first on-air personalities on August 1, 1981. He was with MTV during their first five years of broadcasting and played a large role in the success of the station.

During his time at MTV he helped “unmask” members of the rock group KISS in 1982, covered the 1985 Live AID benefit concert in London and brought legendary performers like Robert Plant and Pete Townsend to MTV for the first time. He also hosted the debut of MTV’s show “120 Minutes.”

Both before and after his time at MTV, Jackson was well ensconced in radio. Just six months ago he left Los Angeles’ 94.7 The Wave (KTWV-FM). According to MTV.com, Jackson was planning on joining former MTV VJ Mark Goodman at Sirius Satellite Radio in the near future.

---

Like this article? Bookmark and share with any of the sites below.