By Ghazali Ibrahim
Popularly Fuji musician, Taiwo Adebisi, popularly known as Taye Currency, has expanded his influence beyond music with the official launch of his own radio station, Currency FM, BlackBox Nigeria has learnt.
The development marks another milestone in the growing trend of indigenous Nigerian music stars investing in the broadcasting industry.
The launch of Currency FM has been greeted with excitement among fans and industry stakeholders, with many describing it as a bold step toward promoting indigenous music, culture and grassroots entertainment.
While the station is expected to serve as a platform for Fuji music and other local content, critics are of the opinion that it will be use to influence political stunts of the ruling party.
BlackBox Nigeria had earlier this year reported that Fuji icon, K1 Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate, establish his own Fuji Radio, promising to unveil a television channel in the near future, signalling a broader media expansion for the veteran performer. Taye Currency has now followed a similar route by launching a new radio station named after his moniker.
The trend is not entirely new. Nigerian music legend, King Sunny Ade, had years earlier founded M&C FM (Music and Culture FM) in his hometown of Ondo, creating a broadcast outlet dedicated to music, tradition and cultural heritage.
Likewise, Tungba music maestro, Yinka Ayefele, stands out as one of the most successful musician-entrepreneurs in the sector. His Fresh FM network has grown into one of the largest radio empires in Nigeria, with stations across all South-West state capitals. Ayefele also owns Tiwa N Tiwa FM and Blast FM, further cementing his footprint in the media space.
Industry observers say the growing investment by indigenous music stars in radio and television reflects a commitment to preserving local sounds, creating jobs and strengthening Nigeria’s cultural economy.
As Currency FM takes to the airwaves, Taye Currency joins a distinguished list of artistes using media ownership to shape and sustain the local entertainment industry.
