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Howie Klein (February 20, 1948–December 24, 2025)

Howie Klein, president of 415 Records, with heavy-metal group Rude Girl in San Francisco, Calif., 1984 (Iris Schneider, Los Angeles Times - https://digital.library.ucla.edu/catalog/ark:/21198/zz0002sf7c)
Howie Klein, president of 415 Records, with heavy-metal group Rude Girl in San Francisco, Calif., 1984 (Iris Schneider, Los Angeles Times - https://digital.library.ucla.edu/catalog/ark:/21198/zz0002sf7c)

By Thomas Neuburger


Howie Klein, master of ceremonies here at DWT, passed away yesterday. We found this out first from his long-time friend Nicole in the comments to this post. Nicole wrote:

I hate to be the one to put this here, but Howie Klein passed away today. He was a friend of mine for over 30 years, and I'll miss him terribly. More than that, he was such a force, working to help get progressives elected, informing us all about what's possible.... You know it all if you read DWT. And then there's Howie's contribution to music. I hope we'll all get to read the book he'd been writing. Rest in Power Howie. You're already missed.

Our condolences to everyone who knew and cared about him! We'll miss him greatly, and for a great number of reasons. Rest in peace, finally, Howie.


Thomas

12 Comments


ap215
Jan 01

Hi Guys I haven't been here in two years so i wanted to log on and share my thoughts on Howie's heartbreaking passing i read the news on Nomiki Konst's X post about him losing his fight with cancer and i was devastated he was a heartwarming welcoming person who made you feel at home with his blog not only was he a true hardcore progressive but he was an amazing music executive he was one of a few and rare executives who really cared about music and talked about the flaws on the broken copyright system he also spoke out about corruption which he was spot on you was an amazing human being Howie thank you for your kindness…

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Kevin Leahy
Kevin Leahy
Dec 28, 2025

RIP Howie,

You made a difference and I cannot begin to express my gratitude for your efforts, insights and your dedication.

To your family/friends/colleagues, my sincere condolences.

kfl

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meteorblades
Dec 27, 2025

There’s been a mega-ton of bad news this year. We definitely need to add this. Another warrior gone.

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meteorblades
Dec 27, 2025
Replying to

Sheesh. We DiIDN’T need to add this.

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Tim Hurst
Tim Hurst
Dec 26, 2025

Progressivism has lost a prince. RIP Howie! I'm forever grateful for your work and your leadership at Reprise!

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ptoomey
Dec 26, 2025

I am at a loss here. Howie ran a great site to which I was able to contribute on occasion. He always fought the good fight and supported candidates and causes who were worthy of support. He led a fascinating life.


His departure from this mortal coil leaves an obvious void. He left us too soon.

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