Charlie Monk, “The Mayor Of Music Row,” Dies At Age 84
on Dec 20, 2022 • Updated Jan 24, 2025
The country music community is mourning the death of Charlie Monk, who was known by his nickname “The Mayor of Music Row.” The Tennessean reports that Monk passed away at home on Monday (December 19). He was 84 years old.
Monk was a popular radio broadcaster, songwriter, and publisher with a career that stretched back for decades. Many of those who tuned in to SiriusXM’s country channels are likely familiar with him and his voice. He hosted programs on the Prime Country and Willie’s Roadhouse channels from 2004 through 2022.
Monk’s broadcasting career was recognized when he was inducted into the Country Radio Hall of Fame in 2019.
RIP Charlie Monk, "The Mayor of Music Row." Thanks for your many years of service on our airwaves. https://t.co/nm2kkHWvm3 pic.twitter.com/1jEAns6dEE
— Willie's Roadhouse (@SiriusXMWillie) December 19, 2022
Before he joined the SiriusXM shows, Monk was more well-known for working in the music publishing side of things. He worked with many artists over the years, including Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton, and Garth Brooks:
“Seriously, man, every time I talk to you, when I leave you, I’m ready to go out and kick the world’s a–,” Brooks said in a tribute to Monk when he was honored by the Nashville Association of Talent Directors. “And that is a gift you have. Thank you for sharing it with me.”
Monk was also known for co-founding the Country Radio Seminar over 50 years ago. The Seminar remains a popular event in the country music industry.
Following the news of Monk’s death, several artists, broadcasters, and organizations took to social media to pay tribute to him. You can read some of those tributes below.
Storme Warren
When it comes to mentors Charlie Monk is on my Mt. Rushmore. From my very first day in Nashville to a phone call two weeks ago his advice,wisdom and humor filled my soul.If you need to find him in heaven,look for the photographer. My hurts for Royce and his entire fam. RIP pic.twitter.com/zjH0oW4MDs
— storme warren (@stormewarren) December 19, 2022
TG Sheppard
It’s such a sad day hearing that my dear friend and SXM host Charlie Monk The Mayor of Music Row has left for home. My thoughts and prayers are with his incredible family, friends and fans. I know he will enjoy his first Christmas in Heaven celebrating with our wonderful Savior!! pic.twitter.com/SEGInELGcs
— TG Sheppard (@TGSheppardmusic) December 19, 2022
The CMA
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Hall of Fame radio personality and CMA Joe Talbot Award recipient, Charlie Monk. Our sincere condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time. https://t.co/nueiLeYFod
— CMA Country Music (@CountryMusic) December 19, 2022
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Charlie Monk, known as “the Mayor of Music Row” during his fifty-plus years in Nashville, died December 19. The longtime music publisher hosted SiriusXM shows, 2004 to 2022. Garth Brooks, Kenny Chesney, and Randy Travis are among the many performers whose careers Monk aided. pic.twitter.com/z9rh3Zjs1N
— Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum (@countrymusichof) December 20, 2022
The Oak Ridge Boys
We lost an influencer and long time friend of EVERYONE in the Country Music Business #RIPCharlieMonk via @MusicRow https://t.co/fqYNiICPjI
— The Oak Ridge Boys (@oakridgeboys) December 19, 2022
The ACM
The Academy mourns the loss of #ACMmember Charlie Monk, known as "the Mayor of Music Row." Monk co-founded @CRSOfficial, hosted its New Faces show 40+ times, and was inducted into the Country Radio Hall of Fame. His legacy in our Country community lives on https://t.co/ynhD8A5Kik
— ACM Awards (@ACMawards) December 19, 2022
Katie Cook
Gonna miss the heck out of you Charlie Monk. What laughs we had. There will never be anyone like you! Sending love to the whole family❤
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.#mayorofmusicrow https://t.co/PXvPCahb8E— Katie Cook (@TheKatieCook) December 20, 2022
Rhonda Vincent
Rest in Sweet Peace Charlie Monk!! He will be missed by the entire Country Music Industry!! Our prayers for peace go out to his family. pic.twitter.com/ibPa56xJdT
— Rhonda Vincent (@RhondaVincent13) December 20, 2022
Dolly Parton
Dolly shares a statement on Instagram stories about the passing of country music radio host and music publisher Charlie Monk. Rest in peace, Charlie. 🤍 pic.twitter.com/eaXf3mqPXY
— Dolly Parton News ☆ (@PartonNews) December 20, 2022
According to The Tennessean, funeral arrangements for Monk are still pending. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this sad time.
May Monk rest in peace…
