An analysis of music magazine layouts, including that on the cover, contents and double page spreads.

1. The Title of NME is not central to page I like this cover as it is bold edgy and fairly minimalist. It is
The pose that Rihanna is taking in this
unlike most other magazines, however advertised at the top of the page that this is in fact one of
shot is quite unusual and bold. She isn’t
it still remains at the top of the page a series of special issues and so people maybe more
just straight on to the camera and has
and in the strongest area for drawing inclined to purchase for this reason alone, people whom
quite a moody expression. I like this
peoples eye line to it. NME also change may not usually buy the magazine or just occasionally.
image as although rather simple is
the colour of the font for their title
striking and bold. The image also fills
every week to tie in with the specific
the majority of the cover basically edge
features of that issue, and in this case
to edge, which I feel works well as it
pink has been chosen to exaggerate the
minimises blank spaces and forces the
bold and feminine style of Rihanna. The
picture to be in your face. The colours
pink also sets a colour theme which
chosen for the model and general cover
compliments the style and layout of the
are also that of about three primary
cover, and creates the mood for the
colours of pink blue and black. The
main feature. NME stands for new
connotation for this photo are
musical express, however the choice of
edgy, moody, rebel and possibly slightly
just calling it NME is far more catchy
eccentric. Depicting Rihanna in this
and striking. However from the title
manner will attract readers who are
alone it is difficult to guess at the genre
looking for modern and new music they
of the magazine unless you are already
will be expecting something edgy and
aware, and so underneath the full
funky and also a feature that is possibly
name is presented.
a little out there and outrageous.
The details of the main features in the
issue of this magazine is down to the The barcode is discreetly to the bottom
bottom left and in quite a fallow area as right, out of the way and fairly
far as eye line. However this is ideal in unnoticeable. However it is still at the
not detracting or covering the main front and perfectly placed for being
image whilst still being clear to read convenient to scan. This is in one of the
and advertising the contents. These most fallow areas for drawing the eye
taglines and heading also intrigue the and so inconspicuous at a glance.
reader to buy the magazine especially if
The main heading for this issue is of the artist for the main feature and is central to the cover in a
they are not particularly fans of
prime spot to be seen. It stands out boldly against the black with the neon pink writing and is only
Rihanna as these may tempt them to
short, stating her name but affective. There is also only one main title used. Underneath the main
purchase or read on regardless. So this
heading there is also a quote taken form the feature article. By including this it offers the reader a
extra information promotes the
little snippet of the contents and will hopefully make them intrigued enough to continue on to
magazine to a larger audience.
purchase the magazine.

2. The title of Rolling Stone is central and at the top of the cover of this magazine in a very generic way. However the actual lettering is
partially covered by the main image, this expresses the importance of Lady Gaga as she isn’t being detracted from or obstructed at
all, she is in the foreground. It also expresses that the magazine is well enough known that people still recognise the name without
seeing whole thing. The chosen font for the tile is rather old school America, which represents its rock and roll theme. The choice of
red is also bold and contrasts well with the pale background.
The photo for this cover, of lady
The writing on the cover is all in one Gaga, is rather simple and
column on the left hand side of the understated, with pale colours and a
page, with the main feature only basic mid-shot. Even Gaga’s facial
written slightly bigger then the title for expression is rather plain and relaxed. I
the other contents. The writing is off to think the simpleness expresses Lady
the side in this ways so it doesn’t cover Gaga’s impact on the magazine
the main image at all keeping it looking herself, as nothing dramatic is required
bare and bold. The font is written in for her to be recognised. This photo
red and black which follows the main also fits with the theme of the
colour scheme and is in keeping with cover, being muted and clean. The
the title. All the writing is also in the colour scheme of pastels also blends
same font maintaining continuity. with her pale hair and skin. There is
The features of the magazine are something striking about this photo
separated with a thick black line and (with her piercing gaze and
remain clear whilst still minimalist. dramatically pale skin) which I would
They are a secondary feature to the like to capture in my own cover.
cover photo and most important However perhaps in a more unusual
aspect. This list of the magazines and vivid way. The image covers the
contents is ideal for enticing the reader majority of the page grabbing interest.
with, as if they’re not fans of Lady Gaga Gaga’s appearance is also in keeping
they can stile be lured to read on. with the rock and roll theme with her
The main strap line for this cover red lipstick and black bra.
‘Monster Goddess’ is ideal for
What I like about this cover is the almost vintage look with faded pastel shades and the fairly
intriguing the reader. As it is clear to
minimalist appearance, with the use of primarily black writing on a pale background it almost
fans that it relates to Lady gaga, whilst
reminds me of a newspaper feel. This magazine is quite unique in many respects as nowadays
also hinting at the context of this magazines tend to use far more vibrant and loud colours. However this colour scheme is ideal for
feature. the ‘vintage’ look which is appropriate to rock and roll, as this too is rather old fashioned.

3. I like this cover as it is actually quite busy and vibrant
The Title of Q is not central to page The choose of position for the
which would stand out on the shelf against plainer
unlike most other magazines, however
covers. Although the eye tends to be drawn away model of this issue is very
it still remains at the top of the page
and in the strongest area for drawing from some of the main information which could interesting and unusual as it is the
peoples eye line to it. Q’s bold one detract from the key features. use of a long shot and with Chris
letter title also stands out strong balancing is a complex position. The
against other magazines as the clear background of the image is also very
and striking logo is easily identified and unusual as it appears to be almost
clear to notice. However Q chooses to like graffiti and is incredibly dark
keep the colour of its logo the same and busy. Even so Chris is
each week which helps with continuity highlighted and clear against the
however limits chose of colour scheme back drop which is very important to
which otherwise could be more varied. catch the readers eye to who he is.
By keeping it the same it will become However the fact that he is turned
more familiar to the general market.
away and looking down minimises
The title ‘Q’ itself is a little obscure and
doesn’t immediately express that it is in
the chances of him being recognised
fact a music magazine, however when people glance at the magazine
through its popularity and use of maybe doesn’t promote the feature
tagline (DISCOVER GREAT MUSIC) of him in this issue.
below it is apparent to most people.
The secondary titles of this
The main heading for this feature is magazine are actually just as bold as
not central to the page but off to the main title of ‘Coldplay’ and
one side and slanted. Although it is seem to be of equal importance.
positioned in this way it still stands Although the eye is still drawn
proud of the background and very primarily to the Coldplay title
clear as it contrasts well with the because of its positioning and the
use of white plain writing on the other writing just provides a
dark busy background. The font type The barcode is discreetly to the bottom left, This is in busyness to the page. The tag line of
looks like it has been draw on with a one of the most fallow areas for drawing the eye and artists featured in the issue are
pen or almost graffiti-ish which so inconspicuous at a glance, out of the way and along the bottom of the page which
reflects the cool and casual attitude fairly unnoticeable. However it is still at the front and I think almost acts like a border and
of the feature band. perfectly placed for being convenient to scan. extra snippets of information.

4. To the left of the page is a band index that tells you
The main contents of the magazine is
The title of the contents reuses the which bands are on each page. This is handy as it
clearly laid out in separate sections
main magazine title logo again to will appeal to the audience of the magazine who
with bold page numbers making it
maintain continuity through the are purchasing because of their interest in music
quick and easy for the reader to find
magazine and constantly remind the and bands and also advertises the extent of how
the page they want. The use of
reader which magazine they’re many bands are included.
categories (News, radar, Reviews, Live
looking at. This title is very clear and and Features) also acts as an overview
bold which is vital as this whole of the general contents allowing the
page is in the magazine to help the reader to establish a very general view
reader navigate and understand the of what’s to come and directs them to
layout. This title also almost appears the specific pages they’ll enjoy. The
like the layout of a newspaper with contents information in this particular
the black and white and this title is magazine is very generic plain and
like a headline drawing in interest. rather simple. However this is
affective in keeping it easy to be read
and understood. Although as it is so
Central to the cover is a large image very plain it may cause some readers
which relates to a mini article on the to skip the page and then miss out on
contents. This is clever in holding the certain features of the magazine or be
readers attention to the page and uninterested.
encouraging them to then happen to
notice the other features. A photo is At the bottom of the page is an added
also a quicker way of getting red arrow which is telling us to turn to
information across to the reader and a particular page for the ‘No.1 Gig
suggesting to them possible themes or
Guide’ The use of the term no.1 is
further pages that may make them wish
there to make it seem the very best
to buy the magazine.
and ultimate so more exciting. By
placing it in a arrow it will also
At the bottom of the page is an advert that encourages the reader to subscribe to the subconsciously hint t to the reader to
magazine. Although the main colour scheme for the page is red and black this advert uses turn over and notice further pages.
bright yellow for the font, which causes it to stand out and contrast against everything This emphasised piece also draws the
else, drawing the eye. The advert only includes the main aspects of the offer like the readers attention to this paticular
price/where to go for further information and so restricts having a chunk of information aspect that they may otherwise
that would put the reader off. A photo is also used to add interest and act as a ploy. overlook.

5. The main title for this page is simple Images featured on the page include those of the
The main image for the cover is of quite a
Contents keeping it plain and simple double spreads within that actual issue, which are
rowdy and exciting looking gig that has
with an added follow up title of there to interest the reader and make them happened and relates to one of the main
‘Kerrang this week’ so people are intrigued to go and actually check them out. People features. This photo fills half of the
clearly informed of the purpose of this flicking to the contents before deciding to buy the contents page, almost being taken as
page. This is incredibly important as magazine may also notice these and be persuaded. more important than the information as it
this page is absolutely crucial in
draws peoples interest in and gets them
encouraging the reader to continue on
excited about the features inside. The
to other pages and be able to easily
photo is also responsible for setting the
negotiate the magazine. The choice of
general mood and tone for the rest of the
the colour yellow and the font chosen
magazine as it portrays the world of music
is the same as that used on the cover
as being bold and outrageous, reflecting
and for both titles. This maintains
the chosen bands and songs within the
continuity through the magazine, sticks
magazine and also will draw in the reader
to a theme which is more appealing to
who is also interested in this style. By
the eye and gives the magazine a better
showing the image of a gig it may also
sense of identity.
encourage the reader to which to book
To the bottom left of the magazine, in a one which they are able to do through the
small place out the way, is a little detail magazine
from the editor with his outline of this
issue and casual thoughts and opinions
presented in quite a chatty manner. At the bottom right of the page is an
This gives the reader almost a little advert encouraging readers to subscribe
introduction to the magazine and to the magazine. This is in a contrasting
hopefully makes them feel in tune with red box that stands out against other
what’s going on and involved on a more elements of the page and also has
personal level. From reading this a example photos to act as visual aids to
person is also able to establish a feel for encourage them further. The information
the magazine and are hopefully of the subscription is minimal so it stays
encouraged from this to buy or read on. clear and bold without putting the reader
off with loads of writing. There is also a
The main information for this page is laid out in clear columns with category headings and number so that people who are interested
bold page numbers. This makes the page functional and user friendly as the reader can can ring in to subscribe
easily be directed to the sections they will be most interested in and won’t be put off or immediately, without them even having to
confused by the design. Even though fairly simple in this section it stills remains interesting go to another page, in which time they
with added photos of the main features that make the key bits stand out. may forget or won’t be bothered.

6. What I like about this contents is that it isn’t fussy
There is only one picture used on the
The title for this page is simply or messy but very minimalist and quite striking with
entire contents page and the picture
‘contents’ keeping it clear and the hard look of Valensi. It acts as almost another
fills and overwhelms the entire page.
obvious. It also incorporates the Q cover page with the limited text or other
This draws importance to the person
logo into the top left of the page to images, and I think I wouldn’t use this style in my
featured, showing there importance to
remind the reader of what magazine own magazine, however I’d aim to keep it simple.
the issue and addressing this to the
they’re actually reading and keeps
reader. It also keeps the page
continuity through the pages as it
minimalist which is successful in a
continues through with the red
maintaining a clean and organised
theme. The main heading also
look. The photo also includes a man
contracts with the rest of the page
wearing dark clothes that also tie in
with the use of the white, making it
with the general colour scheme of the
more striking and bold. On the
magazine which is mainly that of red
heading is also the date of the issue
white and black. The facial expression
and issue number.
of the man is rather stern and hostile
which could be quite off putting to
look at. However it symbolises the
The main text of the contents is
attitude of this man ‘Nick’ and the
encased in a red box at the top left of
tone of the featured article allowing
the page. The vibrant colour causes it
to stand out as the main part of the the reader to gather what to expect.
page, especially against the dull
background. The title of this box is ‘100 At the very bottom of the page and fairly
greatest albums ever’ emphasising and unseen is a quote by Nick Valensi, which
exaggerating the must se appeal. Then acts as a snippet of the main article and
there is just a list of the main features feature. It aims to shock ‘I fart in your
and articles in this issue with relevant direction’ whilst create a sense of
page numbers. confusion and intrigue in going to this
page. The fact this quote is in a white box
causes it to stand out like the
The bottom half of the contents information is of the general articles that appear in the title, highlights importance and helps to
magazine every week. To express their less importance they are simply against the back draw the eye. It gives the reader an
background and lower on the page, and so are far less prominent. Although they still have insight into Valensi’s character and
clearly labelled page numbers and are laid out in a clear manner that aids the reader in introduces him to those that may not
negotiating the magazine easily to find the sections that will appeal most. recognise him already.

7. The main photo for this spread The title for this feature and main page of the magazine is the use of a quote from the interviewed band to
takes up about half the page absorb people straight in to article. It also doesn’t just simple state what the article includes but is fairly
and blends in to the background ambiguous so to encourage the reader to be intrigued to continue on. To the to left of the page there is also
of the text. Images are covering a tag line saying ‘WORLD EXCLUSIVE’ this emphasises the excitement and impact of the feature and adds
about three quarters of the appeal to the magazine as the reader feels they’re learning fresh gossip. The title and tag line are also in
entire article. The chosen main keeping with the colour scheme, however the tag line stands out considerably being a bright red square
image is of one of the band against the plain black, drawing the eye to the important detail.
members on stage with his
microphone looking down. I The tone for the article is
think the look this image actually quite formal and
portrays is that of a rock and serious as it is being
punk theme, quite casual and informative and concise.
sets the mood as being that of a It includes quotes from
chilled and fairly sombre the band members
atmosphere. The use of themselves so the reader
greyscale across all the images establishes insight into
ties them together and doesn’t details of their life, and
incorporate too many colours reveal several bits of new
that would interfere with the information about the
main colour scheme or make bands come back. The
the magazine look messy. article isn’t actually that
Having just the main colours long and so doesn’t put
black white and red also fits the reader off, by not
with the punky genre and the filling the page. And
greyscale images also gives further information of
them a vintage type ‘old school’ the band is also probably
feel. None of the photos feature spread out to further
someone staring directly at the pages.
camera either. Which I think
establishes a sense of intrigue
and hidden thoughts and At the side of the article is a selection of a few of MCR’s songs from their new album, and some reviews of
feelings that hopefully the them. By adding these into the magazine it provides the readers, who are likely to be fans of this band, a
article will reveal. By keeping secret snippet into what’s to, come and also informs them if the songs will appeal or not. By incorporating
the pictures simple it also this into the double page spread, it acts as extra advertising for the band, adds contrast to the page against
encourages the reader to focus the main lengthy article with dark background (with the black background.) Whilst also making the
on the crucial content of the information into more than just a simple passage and into the main feature, by having the extra detail.
information itself.

8. The background text for this piece and one of the main headings is ‘USA’ and although the largest font of the
The image on this page is the page its in a faded grey, and takes a back seat against the title ‘Got the love’ which is in jet black and central
main focus of the feature as it to the right page, in away that draws the eye. The ‘USA’ title is also partly obscured by the image and so isn’t
fills half the spread and is clear to read, implying its secondary importance. It does however give hints as to the content of the article
incredibly striking against the and adds intrigue, just as does the heading ‘got the love’ as it makes the reader question if its simply quoting
pale background. The pose her song or if secret info. is given on her love life, making them read on and become truly interested.
taken up by Florence is actually
quite suggestive and a little
raunchy, with her slightly lifting
Before the main article
her leg in her short dress and
itself is a section of
high shoes. She is staring
slightly larger font, a bit
directly at the camera with a
like an introduction to
slight pouting expression, she
the subjects of the piece.
looks confident and bold. The
This little snippet is
choice of this pose is possibly
rather ambiguous with
expressing a slightly naughty
the phrase ‘So why is
and daring side to her that
Florence on the floor
people may not have seen
attacking herself?’ the
before. The red and white
purpose of this is to
striped cover she is sat on fits
baffle and entice the
with the image of sexy and
reader, as well as causing
quite domineering woman. Red
the reader to take this
is also associated with love, in
image literally and create
keeping with one of the
an image in their mind
headings, a quote from her
that seems odd and
song. The photo seems to set a
enthrals them.
colour scheme for this page as
being black red and white. With
all the true colour coming from
the image alone, drawing the The main article for this piece has a very casual and quirky tone. It describes the interview with Florence in
eye. Florence’s hair is even a red quite a lot of detail and in a light hearted and playful way, picking out quotes of the all the funny one liners
shade which also incorporates she’s made. By compiling the article in this manner it gives the reader a sense that they are reading a behind-
nicely into the theme and as the-scenes, exclusive and personal article. This is especially appealing to her fans as they will be excited to
one of her signature features it hear about Florence as a character, and will also be insightful to those who know very little and will be able
is cleverly emphasised in this to establish a lot about her maybe become interested. The article isn’t actually that long and takes up a mere
way. quarter of the spread. However this is successful in being able to provide an adequate amount of information
without loosing the readers interest.

9. There is a single image on this The main writing of this
double page spread which takes Items used to break up the block of text is a quote in bold which gives the reader feature is laid out in a
up two thirds of the feature. a glimpse of the key contents of the article and draws their attention to interview style with the
The image is of the band ‘The interesting parts they may otherwise miss or overlook. These pieces are questions asked to the
Black Eyed Peas’ and three of emphasised and add interest to the article. The use of the arrows at the top of band and then their
the band members are rather the text almost subconsciously encourage the reader to begin reading. relevant responses.
faded into the background Laying it out in this ways
however one stands out clearly allows the reader to
and bold against the rest. The establish a great deal of
poses of the members are very information in more
confident and quite concise manner without
intimidating, expressing the the use of unnecessary
genre and tone of there music description, and also
and personalities, bold and out- means that the reader
there. The costumes they are learns the exact wording
wearing follow a primarily gold the answers were in and
brown and white colour will feel they are gaining
scheme, which is matched by detailed and exclusive
the colour of the title font and information straight from
arrows. The connotations of the the source. The use of
gold is the idea of quotes greatly appeals to
superiority, displayed well with fans as they are
the fact that this one band interested in all aspects
member is in front of the others of the group and will
in focus and covered in gold. enjoy learning their
This implies to the audience actual opinions and
straight away that he is likely to thoughts as apposed to
be the focus or lead of this ones often speculated by
piece. the press.
The main title of this feature is in the form of the question ‘Will he won’t he?’ Which also invites the reader to speculate on the possible topic
and then be intrigued as to the possible details. This is more effective in encouraging the reader to actually read the entire article as it doesn’t
simply state what its about, which may cause them to feel they don’t need to bother to read on or may loose their interest before they even
bother. The colour of the font fits with the colour of scheme of the page maintaining continuity and the bold choice of font also reflects the
techno outgoings band style. Underneath the main title there is also a summary of the article to give the reader further insight and persuasion
still without exposing too much about details of the article. This writing is over the image however in a fallow and fairly unimportant region that
doesn’t detract from the main image.