When The Source first launched back in the 80s, it set itself apart from other fan magazines by digging deeper into hip-hop culture. Today, the mag stays true to that, albeit with a broader audience. The freelancer-friendly pub has wider demographics and covers much more of the industry now that YouTube stars are turning rap hits into country covers. And, lucky for you, 60 percent of its content is written by freelancers.

Source veteran Kim Osorio has rejoined the pub as EIC and is committed to working with new and up-and-coming writers. In fact, she estimates that as much as 10-15 percent of the content each month comes from first-time freelancers. “It helps to have fresh ideas coming from people who aren’t in the day-to-day grind of hip-hop,” she said.

For more info, read How To Pitch: The Source. [subscription required]

Although Vibe’s tagline is “redefining hip-hop,” there are many ways freelancers can score a byline. Obviously, there’s the music beat, where a pitch on up-and-coming acts or industry trends will woo the editors. “It should be something specific or niche, not the obvious choice,” said deputy editor Clover Hope.

But there’s also room for a service story that tackles a societal issue, like a recent piece on the importance of the census. ”For the longest time, there’s been this stigma in the Black and Hispanic communities about the census. Many don’t know that by not participating and having wrong numbers reported, funding can get cut in their communities,” recalled former managing editor Chloe Hilliard.

Think you’ve got a great idea for the mag? Get editors’ contact info in How To Pitch: Vibe. [Subscription required]