He graduated from Hartford City High School in 1960 and Ball State University in 1967, where he received dual degrees in radio & television and English.

Monroe was well known for his in-depth musical knowledge and clever use of segues that linked songs to create captivating radio sets.

He championed Austin singer-songwriters and Austin-produced music in general and felt strongly that DJs should be allowed the freedom to create their own unique programming.

In the Summer of 2009 KUT's station management began to exercise more artistic control over Monroe's programs and cut his on-air time.

He accepted the invitation when the station's founder, Daryl O’Neal, assured him that he would have full control over the selection of the music that he played on air.

What did you want to hear?”[7][8] The Phil Music theme was developed in his early days at KUT when the station hosted Austin City Council meetings live.

[11] In 1992 and 1993, Monroe interviewed poet and singer-songwriter Townes Van Zandt about his life in an extensive series of studio sessions.

The Townes Van Zandt Documentary album was released as an audio CD and vinyl LP in 1997 under the Normal record label.

[12] Monroe was the narrator on a feature-length documentary film on the life and music of Blaze Foley, produced and directed by filmmaker Kevin Triplett.