The French radio brand FG CHIC is continuing its international expansion. The station has officially launched in London via DAB+ digital radio, marking the fifth city where the format is now broadcast. In addition to the British capital, FG CHIC is already available in Paris, Monaco–Nice, Berlin, and Ibiza.
With the launch of FG CHIC London, the French media group Maison FG is bringing its distinctive blend of electronic lifestyle music and upscale club culture to one of the most competitive radio markets in Europe.
A refined electronic music format
FG CHIC positions itself differently from many traditional dance or electronic radio stations. Instead of focusing on mainstream EDM or chart-driven dance music, the station offers a more sophisticated sound that blends several genres associated with modern urban lifestyle culture.
The playlist includes nu-disco, neo-soul, nu-jazz, and elegant electronic textures, alongside carefully selected contemporary pop music. The result is a format designed to create an atmosphere that fits environments such as rooftop lounges, boutique hotels, stylish bars, and premium retail spaces.
According to the station, the goal is to deliver a refined, forward-looking musical aesthetic that appeals to an international audience interested in fashion, culture, and modern electronic music.
An important element of the programming is the evening mix sessions. Every night from 10 pm, FG CHIC broadcasts DJ mixes featuring both internationally known DJs and emerging talents. The station also features curated residencies from stylish clubs and venues around the world, reinforcing its connection to global nightlife culture.
Derrick McKenzie joins as main host
For its London launch, FG CHIC has recruited a well-known name from the British music scene. Derrick McKenzie, drummer and DJ of the iconic British band Jamiroquai, will serve as the station’s main on-air personality.
McKenzie has long been associated with funk, soul, and groove-driven electronic music, making him a natural fit for the station’s musical identity. His involvement also helps establish a stronger connection between the brand and the UK’s vibrant music culture.
The presence of a recognizable figure from the British music scene is likely intended to help FG CHIC quickly gain visibility within London’s crowded media landscape.
New brand slogan: “Fashion Glamour Chic”
To coincide with the London launch, FG CHIC has also introduced a new international slogan: “Fashion Glamour Chic.”
The new tagline will be used across all FG CHIC stations worldwide, including those in Paris, London, Berlin, Ibiza, and Monaco.
With this positioning, the brand aims to emphasize its identity as more than just a radio station. Instead, FG CHIC presents itself as a lifestyle audio brand, connecting music with fashion, design, nightlife, and contemporary culture.
This broader branding approach reflects a wider trend in modern radio, where stations increasingly operate as multi-platform lifestyle brands rather than traditional broadcasters.
London and the importance of digital radio
Launching in London is a strategic move for Maison FG. The city is not only one of the world’s most influential music capitals but also one of Europe’s most developed digital radio markets.
The United Kingdom has been a pioneer in DAB digital radio, with a large share of radio listening now taking place on digital platforms. Many new stations launch directly on DAB multiplex networks, allowing them to reach wide audiences without requiring traditional FM frequencies.
For international brands like FG CHIC, London provides a unique opportunity to test new formats and reach a cosmopolitan audience that is open to innovative radio concepts.
Experienced leadership: Lawrence Galkoff
FG CHIC London will be managed by Lawrence Galkoff, a well-known figure in the British broadcasting industry with more than 30 years of experience in radio and television.
Galkoff began his career at BBC Local Radio before moving on to national BBC networks and the BBC World Service. In television, he has held senior production roles for major international broadcasts on both the BBC and ITV.
These include coverage of high-profile events such as:
- UK general elections
- the Olympic Games
- FIFA World Cups
- the Eurovision Song Contest
In addition to his broadcasting career, Galkoff served as CEO of Radioplayer Worldwide for eight years, helping expand the global digital radio platform used by broadcasters in numerous countries.
Today he operates DAB multiplex networks in the UK and advises broadcasters on digital distribution strategies, making him well positioned to lead FG CHIC’s expansion into the British market.
Part of the broader Maison FG ecosystem
The London launch is part of a wider international strategy by Maison FG, the French media group behind Radio FG and several related brands.
Beyond radio broadcasting, the company also operates Agence FG, a creative and consulting division that specializes in sound design and musical branding. The agency works with companies in sectors such as luxury retail, mobility, and hospitality, developing tailored sound identities and music-driven experiences.
This reflects a growing trend in the audio industry, where media brands increasingly expand into audio branding, experiential marketing, and curated music environments.
A network of digital music channels
In addition to its terrestrial broadcasts, FG CHIC is also available through a suite of ten digital-only radio channels.
These themed streams focus on specific musical moods and styles, including:
- Lounge
- French
- Chill
- Spa
- Soul
- Vintage
- Mix
All channels can be accessed through the Radio FG website and mobile app, providing listeners with a broader ecosystem of curated electronic lifestyle music.
For online radio audiences, this multi-channel approach allows listeners to choose between different sound atmospheres depending on their mood or setting.
Building a European lifestyle radio brand
With its arrival in London, FG CHIC continues to position itself as an international brand for stylish electronic music and modern lifestyle culture.
Rather than competing directly with mainstream dance radio stations, the brand focuses on a more curated and atmospheric sound that blends club culture with lounge and fashion-oriented aesthetics.
Whether this concept will gain a lasting foothold in London’s highly competitive radio environment remains to be seen. However, the move clearly signals Maison FG’s ambition to expand its presence across major European cities and establish FG CHIC as a global audio lifestyle brand.
Listen to Radio FG Chic London on Surfmusic.de
