After 16 years of revolutionising urban music programming with YFM, Nana Kwame Sarpong, also known as Nockus, is set to take the silver screen by storm with the launch of YTV. As the Head of Strategy at YFM Ghana and now Head of YTV, Nockus has been instrumental in shaping the music and entertainment industry in Ghana.
“I’m thrilled to extend the impact of YFM to television with YTV,” Nockus says. “We’re not just launching a TV station; we’re creating a platform that will showcase Ghana’s youth and their progressive achievements. We want to tell the stories that need to be told, and give a voice to the voiceless.”
With a career spanning almost 26 years, Nockus has made an indelible mark on the radio landscape. His passion for music and arts has led him to work with top radio stations in Accra like Vibe FM, Hitz FM and Atlantis Radio; host various TV shows; and even make appearances in movies such as Life and Living it, Scorned and Perfect Picture by Sparrow Productions. However, his true impact has been felt in the urban music scene, where he has played a crucial role in launching the careers of numerous artists.
Nockus’ journey began in 1997 at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), where he studied Publishing and majored in Design and Illustration. It was during this time that he discovered his love for radio, working at the campus station, COTTANTO Radio. Fast forward to 2008, Nockus was part of the team that launched YFM, Ghana’s first and biggest urban radio station.
Under his guidance, YFM has dominated the youth space, remaining number one in its niche market since its inception. Nockus’ influence has been instrumental in shaping the Ghanaian music industry, providing a platform for artists to showcase their talents.
He has also been instrumental in creating events such as ‘Lyricist Lounge’, ‘Bless The Mic’, ‘Loud in Ghana Concert’, ‘Area Codes Jam’, ‘Loud at the Shiphauzz’, ‘Tawala Wednesday’, among others which have become a launching pad for many successful artists and believed to have shaped the party and nightlife scene in Ghana – which many say has culminated to Ghana being celebrated as a holiday/party destination in December.
“The music industry has vast potential, and I believe urban music radio is key to building the future of Africa,” Nockus notes. “With YTV, we’re taking it to the next level, providing a visual platform that will showcase our rich culture and talent. We want to create a platform that will inspire, educate and entertain.”
Now, with the launch of YTV, Nockus is poised to redefine television. The new platform will delve into unexplored topics, sharing the rich industry expertise of YFM with Ghana and the world. YTV promises to venture beyond the boundaries of YFM, showcasing Ghana’s youth and their progressive achievements.
Nockus’ leadership and vision have earned him a Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s Ghana Entertainment Awards- USA 23, for his contribution to the media and entertainment space in Ghana. His dedication to his craft is evident in his work, and his passion for music and arts continues to drive him.
As YTV prepares to take the airwaves by storm, Nockus remains committed to his vision. “We’re not just creating a TV station; we’re creating a movement,” he says. “A movement that will showcase Ghana’s talent, creativity and innovation to the world. We want to create a platform that will make Ghana proud and inspire the next generation of leaders and creatives.”
In addition to his work with YFM and YTV, Nockus has also been involved in various projects, including hosting TV shows, appearing in movies and working with top artists like Stonebwoy, Trigmatic, Samini, Sena Dagadu, King Promise, Shatta Wale, Jupitar, to name a few, at various levels of their careers. His influence extends beyond Ghana, with his work being recognised and respected across Africa and beyond.
As Head of YTV, Nockus is excited to bring his unique energy and expertise to the small screen. With his passion for music, arts and culture driving him, he is set to reform television and leave a lasting legacy.