The New York Times Magazine February issue stars controversial singer/songwriter Frank Ocean. Ocean has made headlines recently for his involvement in an altercation with troubled singer Chris Brown.
The release of the issue couldn't be better timed. Ocean's album 'Channel Orange' is a huge success and all the hype surrounding his personal life is bound to garner attention. The fantastic editorial was photographed by Ryan McGinley and was written by Jeff Himmelman. Himmelman took this opportunity to explore different depths of Ocean. He delves into the issues surrounding Frank's music, sexuality and personal persona. The editorial like the cover is passionate, evokes Ocean's affinity for music and his inability to stay in the closet.
The New York Times Magazine February issue starring Frank Ocean is a must purchase and a must read.
What's Driving This Trend
- Magazine Covers Featuring Music Artists
- There is room for innovation in the way magazines feature musical artists on their covers. Magazines could explore ways to showcase artists' personal lives and struggles.
- Music Journalism
- As the line between personal life and professional life becomes blurred, there is an opportunity for music journalists to explore the personal lives and struggles of musical artists, rather than simply reviewing their music.
- LGBTQ+ Representation in the Music Industry
- As discussions surrounding sexuality and gender identity continue to gain momentum, there is a need for the music industry to reflect the diversity of its audience and explore the intersectionality of sexual and racial identities in their music.
Who This Affects Most
- Magazine Publishing
- Magazine publishers could explore ways to engage readers with cover stories that dive deeper into the personal lives of musical artists, giving readers a more intimate and authentic look at the artist behind the music.
- Music Journalism
- Music journalists could innovate in their coverage by delving deeper into the personal lives of musical artists, exploring and humanizing their struggles, rather than simply reporting on their music.
- Music Production
- As discussions surrounding identity and representation in music continue, there is a need for music producers to explore a wider range of musical styles and explore new genres with non-traditional sounds and lyrics.
