Rolling Stone

Definition

Rolling Stone is a renowned American magazine that focuses on music, politics, and popular culture, first published in 1967. It has become a vital voice in entertainment journalism, known for its in-depth articles, reviews, and commentary on the music industry, cultural trends, and social issues. Its influence extends beyond the pages of the magazine, shaping public discourse and providing a platform for artists and cultural commentators.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Rolling Stone was founded by Jann Wenner and has played a significant role in the coverage of rock music and counterculture since the 1960s.
2. The magazine is well-known for its iconic album reviews and has been pivotal in launching and sustaining the careers of many musicians.
3. In addition to music, Rolling Stone covers political issues, offering commentary on cultural movements and societal changes.
4. It introduced innovative features like the 'Hot Issue' which spotlights emerging artists and trends within the music scene.
5. The magazine has won multiple awards for its journalistic integrity and impact on entertainment reporting.

Review Questions

• How has Rolling Stone influenced the development of music journalism since its inception?
  • Rolling Stone has significantly shaped music journalism by introducing a style that combines personal narrative with critical analysis. It pioneered in-depth profiles of musicians, allowing readers to connect with artists beyond just their music. This approach has inspired countless publications to adopt similar formats and strive for a balance between entertainment reporting and cultural critique.
• In what ways does Rolling Stone's coverage reflect broader cultural trends and political issues?
  • Rolling Stone's coverage goes beyond just music; it often engages with pressing political and social issues. The magazine highlights movements such as civil rights, feminism, and environmentalism through the lens of popular culture. By connecting musical narratives with these larger themes, Rolling Stone helps to foster a deeper understanding of how culture reflects societal changes.
• Evaluate the impact of Rolling Stone's editorial choices on public perception of music artists and trends over the decades.
  • Rolling Stone's editorial choices have profoundly influenced how music artists are perceived by the public. By choosing which artists to feature prominently or criticize harshly, the magazine can elevate certain musicians to iconic status or diminish others' reputations. This power impacts not only individual careers but also shapes musical trends by directing audience attention towards specific genres or movements, ultimately steering the narrative around popular music culture.

Related terms

Music Journalism: A form of journalism that focuses on writing about music and the music industry, including album reviews, artist interviews, and commentary on musical trends.

Cultural Criticism: Analyzing and evaluating cultural products and practices, including art, music, literature, and societal trends, often with a focus on their social and political implications.

Pop Culture: The set of ideas, practices, beliefs, and phenomena that are prevalent in mainstream society at a given point in time, often reflected in media like music, film, fashion, and more.