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PARIS — Given its almost unique format worldwide, FIP (originally France Inter Paris) could be the perfect acronym for a radio anomaly. More than just a network, the outlet created in 1971 represents an almost inexhaustible source of curiosity. Its role in the music world requires the team to remain attentive, curious and willing to appreciate and listen beyond their daily habits. The station has a strong desire to push the boundaries even further.
Ruddy Aboab, director of the station, is eager to explain how FIP plans to develop its distinct position within public service broadcaster Radio France. Firstly, he describes the daily life of his station and those who make it resonate with listeners: “Every day, we start with a blank page.” That is one way to keep the station’s promise of “curiosity on loop.” This strategy is paying off. The station has nearly 757,000 daily listeners — an increase of 109,000 in one year.
Born digital
According to Aboab, one key to success is simple. “Listen to FIP,” he says, “and you’ll never be disappointed.” The promise seems fulfilled as FIP holds a record in French radio for the average listening time per listener — 138 minutes daily (January–March 2024). When tuning into FIP, listeners know what to expect — or rather, they expect to be surprised. “Our programming has never been more open to the world and various styles,” Aboab says. And it’s beyond notes, styles and rhythms with which listeners connect. “FIP is curiosity, now more than ever,” he says.
“FIP is music, music, music — and humanity,” the station director reiterates, reminding that FIP is a station that unites generations and regions; it is far from an exclusive niche. “Curiosity, high standards and quality are not incompatible with being popular,” he adds, praising the work of the programmers who create a “musical journey” — what they want to convey and how they sequence the tracks for each show.
Streaming platforms loom large in the backyards of music radio stations and are a source of concern. However, FIP once again stands out in its unique approach. “FIP feeds streaming platforms through Shazam,” Aboab notes, smiling. FIP serves as a metronome among the 120,000 new tracks flooding platforms daily, refining its selection with precision. “Platforms are random; FIP’s music is curated with purpose for the listener.” It’s clear that this is a harmonious union.
FIP boasts a significant digital audience, with 45% of its listenership coming from digital platforms, placing it high in this type of consumption. Its 11 internet stations are a contributing factor, with some showing solid results (FIP Groove generates more than a million monthly streams). This trend will likely grow with the launch of the new Radio France mobile app, which prominently features FIP content through its “Music” button.
Curiosity, high standards and quality are not incompatible with being popular.
FIP at its core
The station has welcomed DJ Laurent Garnier to its lineup. This choice is no coincidence. Garnier once said, “My earliest music memories are tied to FIP.” His return home comes in the form of the program “[DEEP]Search,” airing on the first Saturday of every month from 10 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
The show gives Garnier carte blanche to share the “musical treasures” from his listening sessions. “I don’t want algorithms to dictate what I play. I spend my life listening to music and want to share it with the audience,” the DJ says. “I sensed his desire to return to radio and join public broadcasting,” Aboab explains, proud to welcome Garnier, a move that aligns perfectly with the station’s DNA.
When asked what the next season holds for FIP, Aboab quickly outlines a clear direction — a strategy that should allow the station to deliver on its promise. “We can go further by asserting the identity that brings us together,” he says, adding, “Listen to FIP, and you’ll never be disappointed.”
A long-time media addict — radio, TV, web and press — the author says that not a day goes by without him listening to the radio. This article first appeared in French in RedTech’s sister publication La Lettre Pro.
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