Jammin Johnny, a popular radio DJ in Miami who was the program director for Latin radio station El Zol 95.7 Fm, has died.
Johnny, real name John Charles Caride, had been sick in recent times and been in and out of hospital. He finally lost the battle in November 2024. He was 48-years-old.
No cause of death has been revealed but reports indicate he suffered from cancer.
Jammin Johnny’s death was announced by numerous colleague DJs, musicians, fans, friends, and more, who were all stunned by the news and chipped in with their shock.
“Brother you fought this battle with the class and dignity you demonstrated throughout your entire life. Thank you for your support and most importantly your loyal friendship for 45 years,” Charles Rodriguez, who is the CEO of Miami Disco Fever said.
Caridas completed Coral Gables Senior High School and received a diploma in 1983. He completed a BS, Business Administration program at Miami Dade College.
Jammin Johnny worked at Power 96.5 Miami. He later moved to Latin Radio station WXDJ El Zol 95.7 Miami, where he became Program Supervisor at SBS Spanish Broadcasting System.
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He ran his own ‘Party Players DJs company for thirty years, starting January 1993 until his death. He proudly described the company which provided entertainment needs for any event including DJ, photo booth, MC’s etc, as the “Most Successful Entertainment Business in South Florida”.
Tributes to him mentioned his kind-heartedness and generosity to other artists particularly those starting out. More than one artist credited him with giving their first big break on the radio.
“JJ was the first DJ in south florida along with Mohammed Moretta to believe in my music and give me a spin for the first time on Power 96,” said Tito Puente Jr.
Said Gabriel Perez: “At the dawn of my music career, I shared my record with Johnny, and remarkably, I landed gigs in every club and radio , all thanks to his unwavering support, never charging me a dime,”
A heartfelt tribute from K Marie took the cake.