We regret to bring the very sad news that Lou Curtiss passed away on Monday, July the 8th. He died peacefully at his home at the age of 79. Lou was one of the most passionate & knowledgeable people you’d ever meet. He was a force to be reckoned with, dedicating his life to the preservation of music. His depth of knowledge about American music was astonishing & unparalleled. And he had thousands of fascinating stories to share with the many people he loved. In addition to running Folk Arts Rare Records for 47 years, Lou organized 56 ambitious music festivals and was a much loved San Diego radio DJ for decades. Lou’s rich life included lots of political activism, working for the preservation of the arts & music and volunteering in Mississippi during the Civil Rights Movement. He dedicated thousands of hours to the archive work in his vast & impressive Lou Curtiss Sound Library. Lou truly committed his entire life to the love of music, positively affecting countless people along the way. We will miss you dearly, Lou, and we’re sure you’re currently picking and grinning with good friends on the other side. We will keep you informed of Memorial plans. As for now, you can feel free to come down to Folk Arts to share some Lou Curtiss stories. I’ve got many. Rest In Peace, Lou. You were truly one of a kind.