Art Fein, the beloved public‑access television host whose show Art Fein’s Poker Party became a cultural touchstone for roots‑music fans, died on July 30 at the age of 79. His passing followed surgery for a broken hip.

Fein made creative use of a 1984 FCC policy requiring cable companies to include public‑access channels in franchise agreements—a platform he embraced wholeheartedly. Filmed in Los Angeles after relocating there in 1971, Poker Party also aired in music‑obsessed cities like Austin, New York, and Seattle.

Before television fame, Fein had brief stints in promotion at Capitol, Elektra/Asylum, and Casablanca, as well as working as a music editor for Variety. But it was through his cable show that his true talents shone. By 1992, Poker Party had reached 400 episodes, earning attention from the Los Angeles Times. That same year, Fein reflected on the show’s importance: “I’ve always had an artistic temperament, but … this is something I feel really good about.”

His reach extended beyond television. Fein authored two books, The L.A. Musical History Tour and his memoir, Rock’s in My Head, based on an astounding 10,000 pages of journals. He also blogged at Another Fein Mess, now archived online.

Over his career, Fein wore many hats: journalist, band manager (for acts like the Blasters and the Cramps), music consultant for TV and film, event promoter, photographer, record collector, and rock & roll historian.

Fein’s legacy lies in his unwavering dedication to music and his cheerful, curious spirit—qualities that resonated whether in front of a camera or on the page. His death marks the end of an era in public‑access TV, but his influence remains in every note and story he shared.