Veteran Programmer Charlie Cook Ready For Something New

Cumulus Media vp of country Charlie Cook is set to exit the company, with his last day being May 31. Cook has made significant contributions to the world of country music broadcasting. 

Let’s explore his remarkable journey:

Career Overview:

• Charlie Cook’s radio career began in Michigan back in 1972. Since then, he has crisscrossed the United States, leaving his mark on various stations and formats.
• During the 1980s and 1990s, he served as the SVP of Country Programming at McVay Media.
• Later, he joined Westwood One as the Vice President of Programming.
• His expertise and passion for country music led him to Cumulus Media, where he held several key roles.

Charlie Cook

Cumulus Media Roles:

• Vice President of Country Music: Charlie Cook’s influence extended across Cumulus Media’s country music portfolio.
• Programming Operations Manager: He oversaw programming operations for the Cumulus Nashville group, which includes five stations.

Program Director:

• 95.5 Nash Icon (WSM-FM): Cook shaped the format and content of this station.
• 103.3 Country (WKDF): His programming expertise also impacted WKDF.

Awards and Recognition:

• Country Radio Hall of Fame: In 2011, Charlie Cook was inducted into the prestigious Country Radio Hall of Fame.
• ACM Service Award: He received this honor alongside Bill Mayne in the previous year.

Charlie Cook’s departure from Cumulus Media is bittersweet. After nine years of dedicated service, he is stepping down from his roles. His final day is set for May 31, 2024. Cook expressed gratitude to everyone at Cumulus and in Nashville, emphasizing that it’s time for a new adventure.