How To Pitch: Vibe

This music and culture mag is back and better than ever for freelancers

By Aria Hughes - September 16, 2011

The information in this article is current and accurate

Circulation: 300,000
Frequency: Six issues a year
Special Issues: Juice issue (August/September), Hollywood issue (October/November), Sexy issue (June/July).

Background: Ask a music lover how they stay on top of industry news, and chances are Vibe is a go-to source. Founded by legendary music producer Quincy Jones in 1993, the publication was forced to shut down in June 2009 due to financial constraints. But the doors didn't remain closed for long. In December 2009, the magazine relaunched as part of the Vibe Lifestyle Network under the management of InterMedia Partners, a private equity firm, and its magazine publishing unit, Uptown Media. In early 2011, Magic Johnson Enterprises and Ron Burkle's The Yucaipa Companies made news by investing in the pub.

Although its tagline is "redefining hip-hop," the new Vibe is open to non-urban stories that place a greater emphasis on popular culture. Yes, the magazine is iconic and known for its big name bylines, but that shouldn't scare scribes from eyeing its prime journalism real estate. Senior editor Clover Hope is always looking for freelancers to deliver under-the-radar artists and music trends with the right Vibe. "Let us know about something we might not be up on," she says. "It should be something specific or niche, not the obvious choice."...