R.I.P.: Iconic Knoxville Personality Bobby Denton

Bobby Denton has passed away following a brief illness. He started his broadcasting career at WIVK 107.7 FM, and liked to joke that owner Jim Dick ordered him off the air when he first heard him.

Bobby Denton was also a local raceway announcer, then moved up to the P.A. announcer at Talledega Superspeedway. While that was going on, his responsibilities increased at WIVK and its associated radio stations. He retired a few years ago as general manager. But Denton kept on with his job as the stadium announcer for the University of Tennessee Volunteers.

Bobby Denton's name and legendary career not only brought financial success to these stations, his work on behalf of the country music industry made WIVK a nationally known station, and helped make country music a household genre.

TRIBUTE:  Airs Thursday 9AM on several Knoxville stations: Click Here

Cumulus Knoxville Market Manager Ken Salyer released this statement about Bobby's passing:

Like so many thousands, we at WIVK and Cumulus Knoxville, are heartbroken at the news of the loss of one of the most respected and revered people in our industry.  Not only was Bobby Denton the General Manager of WIVK and Vice President of Dick Broadcasting for many years, but he was our friend, mentor, and leader.  His kind-hearted and sincere involvement and support in hundreds of charity events and fund-raisers have touched the lives of millions of East Tennesseans. 

Bobby’s role as the PA Announcer for 48 years in Neyland Stadium has endeared him to millions of Vol fans across the state and beyond. Like so many others, Bobby’s iconic voice and the legendary phrase “It’s Football Time in Tennessee” will forever be embedded in our treasure of memories along with Neyland, Majors, Fulmer, John Ward, Pat Summitt, and others.  Bobby Denton was truly a giant in the radio industry and a treasure for the state of Tennessee. 

Ironically, on May 3rd, WIVK will be inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame.  We will accept this award on behalf of Bobby Denton, Jim Dick, and the many legendary figures that preceded us and made WIVK one of the most decorated and distinguished stations in America.. 

On behalf of Cumulus Media Knoxville and our radio family, we extend our condolences to Bobby’s family and ask everyone to respect their loss during this time.