Research: Articles in Music Magazines

There are a few different types of layouts which can be used in music magazines. I bought a copy of Q magazine (the December 2013) and found a few types:

Here are three examples of double page spreads in a 'Q' issue

 

On this one, pictures and text is spread across both pages, there is not an obvious break point between the two pages. There are multiple images, which gives the reader a deeper insight, showing them more 'information' about The Beetles. This type of layout works well for stories or talking about a past/historic band. On the right page, there is an extra box of text which does not relate directly to the main article and pictures. This could be to keep readers amused and informed about different things. The page shows two completely contrasting artists, The Beetles and then Miley Cyrus in the bottom right-hand corner. A pun has been used on the left page 'Let it Beeb' in the main title which captures the reader immediately as it relates to the band. Fans of The Beetles will understand that the title is referring to one of their famous hit singles, 'Let it Be'.

Again, the picture has been spread slightly across the pages. However unlike the DPS layout above, there is only one image which is therefore dominant. The size of the image fills a whole page, which is a reoccuring layout used in magazines and attracts the reader's eye. Dominating the band like this may entice the audience to read the article as they may recognise the band or if not, they may like the look of them/their style and want to read about them. Although the page is taken up by one large image, a usual convention is to have an enlarged quote displayed to break it up a bit. The title 'Q Introduces' suggests that the band are less recognised and famous than perhaps a more established band like Bastille. This could make the reader want to read the article as they may want to find out more about the band and what type of music they make/play.  

Differently again, this layout shows one large image spread across the whole double page spread, used as a background in comparison with the plain white background in the other two examples (this make text clear and easy to read). The text is still significant as it is white against the dark colours of the image. The title is very large and the length spreads from one end of the page to the other which makes it stand out to the reader. It also introduces what the article is about as 'The Changing Man' suggests that it is about the artist 'changing' in some way which would make the reader what to read it.

 

All three layouts are different buy at the same time, have some consistent codes and conventions. The audience can recognise a house-style throughout all pages of red and white which establishes the magazine making it easier for the reader to identify. Images and text are also shown on each page and lastly, page numbers are shown in the bottom corners of all pages.