VIBE Magazine Returns to Print After a Decade-Long Hiatus
VIBE Magazine, founded by Quincy Jones, is relaunching its print edition after more than a decade, aiming to deliver in-depth storytelling about Black culture, music, and entertainment.
A new era for VIBE has officially begun.
More than ten years after ceasing physical publications, the iconic brand is making a comeback to print, with the inaugural issue slated for release next week.
In 1992, Quincy Jones established VIBE Magazine, envisioning a mainstream publication that reflected the full power, sophistication, and influence of Black culture, which was significantly shaping music, fashion, language, film, and politics.
VIBE emerged as a cultural treasure, setting the agenda rather than following it. Drawing inspiration from Rolling Stone, Jones aimed to create impactful journalism rooted in Black culture. In its early years, the publication championed a new wave of young artists, including Snoop Dogg, Biggie, Mary J. Blige, Tupac, Usher, and Lauryn Hill. A VIBE cover became a coveted platform for artists like Prince, TLC, Wu-Tang Clan, and Mariah Carey. In 2007, VIBE notably featured Barack Obama on its cover, recognizing a cultural shift with the headline, “Ladies & Gentlemen, (Is This) The Next President of the United States?” The final double-cover issue in 2014 showcased Drake and Kevin Hart.
Throughout the '90s and early 2000s, VIBE served as a cultural timestamp, capturing the trajectory of Black culture, music, fashion, and influence. With its return to print, this legacy continues to shape the future of Black media. Having joined forces with Rolling Stone in 2025, the brand reaffirms its commitment to delivering deeply reported storytelling across various platforms.
The first print cover story is set to launch online on June 2nd. The issue will feature a cover star and include commentary and reporting on the current state of Hip-Hop, fashion, and culture, with interviews featuring today’s leading tastemakers.
Moving forward, VIBE will be published quarterly, with premium paper and limited quantities (1,000 for the first issue). Each issue will be available exclusively at specialty newsstands and on shop.rollingstone.com.
In an era dominated by online content, VIBE believes that the artists shaping our culture deserve more than fleeting attention.
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