Music mags may have migrated from print to digital in many cases, but flipping through glossy pages still provides an experience that online can’t replicate. For decades, music mags have connected fans to new tunes, behind-the-scenes stories, and an immersive visual experience. This guide will hit the high notes of some of the biggest names in music magazines as well as newer startups. Whether your passion is rock, rap, indie, or EDM, you’ll discover mags that speak to your musical taste. Learn the backstories of legendary titles like Rolling Stone and check out what pixie-haired frontwomen and lanky British rockers are up to lately. The rhythm and tempo may have changed, but music magazines still provide a unique way to get your music fixed.
Discover Music Magazines and Soundtracks
Music magazines cover the soundtrack of our lives in all its diversity. Iconic monthly staples like Rolling Stone and Spin cater to rock and pop fans with artist profiles, while niche publications like JazzTimes and Fiddler focus on specific genres. Online innovators like Pitchfork and Stereogum were early digital disrupters, but still produce print issues for fans craving that tactile experience. Glossy magazines provide what streaming lacks—curation, analysis, and creative visuals you want to hang on your wall.
Though formats keep changing, music mags’ core role persists: filtering an overwhelming music landscape down to the essential artists and albums. They remain trusted guides, introducing listeners to new sounds and serving up reviews from reliable critics. Music magazines highlight what matters most, offer a deeper dive into artists through interviews, and provide a space for music discovery and fandom you can’t find anywhere else. Print or digital, they connect us to the music.
Finest Music Magazines by WHSmith
1. Classic Rock
The founding father of music magazines, Classic Rock captures the wild spirit of the 1960s and 70s rock n’ roll. Packed with iconic photos of guitar gods like Hendrix and Clapton, it’s a monthly dose of the legends who shaped the genre, along with emerging bands carrying the torch. Relive Woodstock, dive deep into artists like Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd, and discover new music while paying homage to the classics. A must-read for any rock fan.
2. Harry Styles Art Cards Magazine
Feel close to pop heartthrob Harry Styles with this unique art card collection celebrating his charisma and iconic fashion. More than 40 removable art cards showcase different artistic styles, from paint and illustration to collage and more. Flip through images of Hazza’s tattoos, album art, candid shots, and high fashion magazine covers. An imaginative way for fans to own a piece of his visual legacy.
3. Pianist
With in-depth profiles, lessons, and repertoire advice, Pianist magazine brings the piano community together. Gain insight into legends like Lang Lang or undiscovered young virtuosos. Learn new pieces and techniques to improve your playing. Reviews highlight new sheet music and recordings for inspiration. Whether hobbyist or pro, it deepens appreciation for the piano and connects readers through their shared passion.
4. Vintage Rock
Vintage Rock transports readers back to rock’s glory days with a celebration of the albums, artists, and eras that shaped the genre. Think Aerosmith in the 70s, Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust, The Cars’ debut record. Each issue is filled with retro stories, album spotlights, artist profiles, and “Back When” features reliving rock history. For fans who want a nostalgic read and some tunes for their next throwback playlist.
5. Rolling Stone USA
The venerable bible of music coverage, Rolling Stone shaped rock journalism and delivered iconic images through landmark interviews, photoshoots, and reviews. From Lennon gracing the first issue to Harry Styles in a dress decades later, Rolling Stone remains essential reading for insight into artists and the context behind their work. It’s both a time capsule and a real-time guide through the changing music landscape.
6. Mojo
Mojo brings the legends of classic rock together through masterful interviews and photography that music fans crave. Each edition pays homage to iconic albums and artists from Dylan to Bowie who forever transformed music. Longform articles, thoughtful reviews, and stories told from multiple perspectives reveal insights about both renowned and forgotten musical heroes. Essential reading for a deeper appreciation of rock’s creative pioneers.
Conclusion
For over 50 years, music magazines have given fans an experience beyond just listening to songs. Iconic publications like Rolling Stone connected readers to artists through interviews and photography that shaped pop culture. As formats change, music mags continue curating music discovery and telling stories in new ways. Niche publications highlight emerging genres. Online innovators like Pitchfork rapidly cover new music. But print still offers an immersive experience for engaged fans. With streaming’s endless options, music magazines remain vital filters, uplifting artists who embody the sound of now. Though delivery evolves, their role persists— guiding us to meaningful music and deepening our connection to the artists behind it. Discover new and old publications at WHSmith. For more information on pop music magazines check out Savewithnerds.
