Philip Gibbons

THE VOICE OF COOKEVILLE

Cookeville’s Most Influential People – Class of 2022

With a career in radio that spans over 48 years, there is no denying the impact that Philip Gibbons has made on the Cookeville community. In fact, Philip started working in broadcasting at only 15 years old. “I had a fascination with radio and TV from a very early age,” Philip recalls. “I would mimic announcers’ voices for my parents and always knew I wanted to be in broadcasting.”

Before he could even drive, Philip got a shot hosting his own show from 8-11pm on WPTN -FM, the same call letters that are associated with Zimmer Broadcasting currently.

Philip quickly climbed the ladder and has since enjoyed a decorated career as the host of his own midday show on 94.7 The Country Giant. Beyond excelling as a DJ, Philip has achieved many monumental highlights over the years including being inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame, being a guest announcer at the Grand Ole Opry for 13 years straight, and meeting and interviewing country superstar Garth Brooks. “I got to interview Garth backstage at Bridgestone Arena a few years ago,” Philip said of his most memorable interview. “My family and I just hung back there with him and Trisha (Yearwood) and chatted. It was a surreal moment.”

Going above and beyond the call of duty is nothing new to the Cookeville native. Philip’s booming baritone voice can also be heard at TN Tech Football games where he has served as the public address announcer since 1983, as well as Tech women’s basketball games. You can find Philip around town on any given night hosting events from the Pink Gala to Cookeville Regional Foundation’s ‘A Woman’s Heart,’ to the Habitat for Humanity luncheons. His advice to anyone wanting to pursue a career in radio? “Be willing to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of journalism,” Philip notes. “Be humble and willing to start at an entry-level position. The path is nothing like it was 30 years ago or even 10 years ago. Adapting is everything.”

In his spare time, Philip enjoys spending time with his wife, two daughters, and grandkids. “If you know him, you love him,” a sentiment that Philip’s’ friends, family, and listeners all echo of the cherished local personality.