Black Magazines: All about The Black Voice In Media

Filled with commentary, information, references, and language aimed at African Americans, Black magazines are publications that most appeal to people who live and understand the Black culture. Along with relevant articles and other content like interviews and celebrity news, these magazines extensively feature images that are a reflection of their target audience. Black magazines were born as a platform to raise voices against the widespread racism and discrimination exhibited in mainstream media and magazines against the Black community of America. Before the first Black magazine was published, people of color were vastly underrepresented in media. Magazines did not discuss issues that were important to them, nor did they feature any photos of African Americans in their pages. It was only in 1974 that Beverly Johnson became the first African American woman to grace the cover of Vogue US. For minorities, representation is important. It is important for you to see yourself, your culture and your community portrayed in not just magazines but also popular culture. And Black magazines and the later urban magazines did just that.

The Beginning

Negro Digest was the first Black magazine, which was founded on November 1, 1951, by John Johnson. The name of the magazine was later changed to Jet Magazine and it is continuing to get published today in a digital format. In the days of the Civil Rights Movement, Jet was one of the most prominent publications to chronicle the events. It covered the Montgomery bus boycott as well as the Emmett Till murder. Johnson’s subsequent publication was Ebony, which was a magazine that heralded the dawn of Black media and encouraged advertisers to offer their support.

Popular Black Magazines

Today, magazine publishing, including Black magazines, is at a troubling stage, with a number of publications struggling to stay afloat. Fortunately, there are a few Black magazines that have continued to survive despite a slump in revenue. They are not only available online but also in print. Here are some of the most popular titles:

1. Ebony

Ebony is arguably the most popular magazine for African Americans today. It covers a gamut of topics that range from sports and entertainment to art and history. In addition to that, they also analyze and offer commentary on politics and culture.

2. Essence

The essence is a leading publication that is aimed at African American women. It is where “Black girl magic comes alive.” The magazine provides news and information about Black women for Black women.

3. XXL

Founded in 1997, XXL is hip-hop or urban magazine. It provides exclusive news and commentary about hip-hop and rap, including music reviews, artists to watch out for, rapper interviews and more.

4. Vibe

Founded by Quincy Jones in 1993, Vibe is another popular entertainment and music magazine that is addressed to African Americans. It is a preeminent name in urban culture.

Find Vibe, XXL, Ebony and other Black and Urban magazines at Wall Periodicals.