My finished media product and Evaluation

For part of out AS media studies coursework, we had to create our own music magazine, double page spread and contents page.

In what ways does your media product use, develop or challenge forms and conventions of real media products?
I feel my media product both challenges and uses conventions which are used in professional media products. With conventions on my front page such as a Masthead is used, Pull quote, puffs, plugs and a main image. However, at the bottom of my front page, I feel I have challenged a convention as I have included a lure within my page which displays the names of musical artists which will be featured inside my magazine. The challenging aspect of this is instead of separating the musical artists into different musical genres I feel by placing them together I have widened my target audience for the magazine however, this is something in which NME magazine, or MOJO magazine would not necessarily display on their magazine front covers. NME and Mojo magazine seem to feature only one standard genre in there magazine where as I initially planned out to include many different artists as I personally, like to listen to a large range of music with various different genre: thus I found Rolling Stone magazine large inspiration within media product. The conventions I did use, where usually the most important features of a music magazine, such as a masthead which supplied a sharp, snappy name for the magazine which is easy to remember. A main focus point, being the central image; next to the image being the headline, underneath the headline is the subheading. I feel this are all important stylistic features for creating the magazine front cover more personal and an ideal way to attract potential audiences. The plug which is featured on my front page, ‘Your guide to the hottest gigs of 2009’ is a strong convention which was important to display as features like these are used to attract more audiences, and with the idea of competition with other media institutions, the stronger plugs there are, the more attention from audiences you are going to get. I feel I have also developed some unusual conventions which are only seen on a few magazine front covers, which is a tag line explaining what ‘EMF’ stands for, I retrieved this idea from NME magazine which they’ve also printed it as a tag line.
On the double page spread I feel I have again, used strong conventions, developed my own and also challenged them. The large headline introduces the artist, and as this is the main selling point on the front page I feel the headline had to be strong and bold as this is the main reason the audience has bought the magazine. I’ve also used another convention, pull quotes. These are main focus points as the audience will look at the pull quotes and pictures before reading the story, thus the pull quotes have to be shocking, interesting and some the artist up introducing his attitude and opinions on a topic. I’ve used a subheading, which introduces what the interview will be about, and also introduces the artists for readers who don’t know who the artist is, however are intrigued by the front cover. One convention which I’ve challenged, is the artists usually has one strong image on a double page spread, however instead I’ve used six separate images of which are all overlapped, I feel this represents the artists image however, it introduces the artists a little more, as I’ve used some photos which I’ve taken when I’ve been at a club and, for the reader it will seem a lot more private and intimate if you can see any ones private photos, it’s taking you into their world.

How does your media product represent particular social groups?
My front page, I feel represent artists, who make music because they’re passionate about it. The idea of the main image being eye level and direct mode of address allows the audience to connect with the artist and the way the image doesn’t seem glamorized it’s not creating any status division between the audience and the artist. The other artists which are featured with photographs are also not glamorised is anyway and are photographed, looking like they are having a good time; whatever they are doing. It’s representing the idea it is positive to exploit your opinions and be loud with the way you dress. I feel from the front page it comes across as a positive magazine; representing people, as who they are.
The double page spread, it’s representing the artists as someone who likes to party. However, the idea of some photographs being private, I feel again my magazine is exploiting the artist how he is, and what he likes to do in general: have fun! The idea of him being dressed in jeans and a thin jacket and out in the snow posing with silly faces, doesn’t represent the idea of him being serious all the time when he creates music, however he’s having a good time what ever he does.

What kind of media institution might distribute your media product and why?
Media institutions such as Rolling Stone would distribute my media product, as I feel is attracting more of a younger audience, whereas Rolling Stone magazine does seem to attract more of an older audience. However, I also feel NME could also distribute it, as NME magazine only seem to feature one genre which is indie-rock, I feel they would benefit for my magazine features most genres, not just one thus my magazine would appeal to a wider audience rather then a certain type of audience who only like one genre.

Who would be the audience of your media product? How did you attract/address your audience?
I feel my magazine attracts the audience for literally anyone who has a passion for music. On the other hand, I feel it could possibly attract the younger audiences more, rather then the older audience. I feel this because of the age of the artists featured, they are all young: thus the older audience may feel this magazine is not targeted at them. However I do feel my magazine is targeted at a both males and female audience and also targeted to different ethnic majorities. The bright colours however, I feel again reinstate the ideas of this magazine connecting with the younger audience, as the colours are bright and sharp and I feel are eye catching to the younger audience as I couldn’t picture a fifty year old man picking up a magazine with bright sharp colours displayed all over the front page.

I feel I attracted my audience, as on the front page I included both female and male artists. This was important as I feel I have to include as many different types of people, as this widens the target audience and also makes the magazine more interesting for the readers, for if the magazine only featured a certain type of bands, instruments and people and had hardly any variation, the potential audience will be narrow. On the front page, I placed a strong pull quote which does attract and intrigue audiences, as the pull quote it very mysterious and does not conclude what the artist was explaining in the pull quote, therefore the audience would have to buy the magazine to fully read the main story. A pull quote is a type of plug, which is there to lure the audience in to purchasing the magazine: it’s a strong selling technique and I feel mine is as strong as a professional music magazine front cover. The main focus point, being the image has being photographed at direct mode of address, which is inviting and eye catching to the audience, it also allows the audience to connect with the artists before purchasing the magazine. The idea of the main image being eye level, this automatically states there is no arrogance with this artists, also the audience and the artist are on the same level, it also states the idea of there is no status division again, between the artist and the audience which reinstates the idea of the artist being able to connect with the audience. I’ve used sharp colours, which I feel are eye catching and will attract particular audiences.

What have you learnt about technologies from the process of constructing this product? Looking back at your preliminary task, what do you feel you have learnt in the progression from it to the full product?
I’ve learnt a lot of things whilst creating my media project, one point would be how difficult it can actually be to create such a media product. A magazine front cover, has so much thought into it which I’d never expect it to have, and the way people who work for music magazines can just put a whole one together, every two weeks I think is amazing as I know how hard it is to complete a magazine front cover, never mind a full forty paged magazine! I originally thought Microsoft Publisher was a simple programme however, now I’ve used it for lots of different publications it’s a large eye opener to now know, what else publisher can do. I feel I’ve gained some more depth into using both Photoshop Elements, and also Microsoft publisher. However, I may have increased with confidence by using these professional programmes, however I still feel the best was to plan your work is simply pencil and paper. I’ve learnt a pencil and paper should never be discouraged as by the first planned drawing of your magazine, you can create so many ideas which is what a computer fails to do.

Looking back to the preliminary task, I feel I have definitely grown with my ideas and very much with my understanding of what a magazine features and includes. I feel I did learn from the mistakes which I made with my preliminary task, however I also established the contrast between each magazine and which features would be more common on one magazine where the other would have a totally different feature all together. I feel it did help establish my ideas for my music magazine by first completing the preliminary task, which seemed to be a good starting point, as music magazines I feel nearly attract all the same audience: a younger one and with creating a college magazine, you where able to already make a start on the music magazine without realising. I feel my knowledge with using programmes such as ‘Microsoft publisher’ and ‘Adobe Photoshop’ was first enhanced by first completing the preliminary task.

If I was honestly to complete this task again, the things I would do different would be down to planning: uploading all of my taken photos onto ‘Blogger’ and updating Blogger more as I tried new things, new ideas, new thoughts. I feel I’ve left a few of my first ideas which would have been positive for showing how my ideas have grown in this evaluation. I don’t believe I would have changed anything else with this task, as I feel I gave my ultimate and I am happy with the end result. I would have liked to spend a few more days on the project, thus I wish I created a timetable which organised how much I would spend on my magazine per night, however, I am overall happy with my end product.

A collection of photographs which i can use for my front page

I want to express the artists image through the photograph, therefore i presented myself as an artist with a strong image. These are some photographs which i feel would be appropriate for the front cover:

I feel this would be appropriate to be displayed on the front cover of my music magazine. Reasons for this is the idea of the angle being eye level to the audience, this creates the feeling of there being no status division between the audience and the artist which does make the story or interview inside the magazine, seem a lot more reliable and as if the artist is telling the audience the story personally.

I like the idea of direct mode of address as it is inviting towards the audience, eye catching and also intriguing. It draws the audience into the story and eye contact is made with the artist which results in the audience purchasing the magazine.

The white background i felt would fit perfectly, as it's strongly juxtaposed. The connotations of the colour white, reflect purity, tranquil surroundings and is also very calming. However, this seems juxtaposed against the artists image.

The artists image I've chose to dress with quite a retro and vintage feel. I feel this reflects the genre of Electro pop and techno music, with artists such as Florence And The Machine, Bloc Party, Lady Gaga and Little Boots seem to dress bizarre, and this reflects their bizarre interpretation on music. I feel it's juxtaposed as the colour white is supposed to be calming, the idea of his clothing represents party, and loud music: certainly the opposite of what white represents.

The like the idea of the artist with his hand being in his hair. It reinstates the idea of his image being party, alcohol and music driven as it connotates the idea of being tired, and being in a daze which reflects the idea of the artists being out late the night before.

The only problem with this photograph is the reflection from the flash in the spectacle lenses, they are very distinctive as these could result in being iconic for the artist.

This is another photograph which i could use for my front page.

This has the similar characteristic as my other photograph, including the reflection on the spectacles.

However, this would be a good photograph to use as my main focus point on my front cover, as it represents the artist the same way as the first photograph did. I like the idea of his hand being on his head, this suggest he is tired and the idea of him being dressed up, suggest the idea he is going out partying, once again.

I like the direct mode of address, this intrigues the audience and also connects the audience with the magazine straight away.

The low angle i feel is a positive effect as, like the Madonna photo shoot for Rolling Stone magazine, it creates a sort of arrogance aura around this artist. However, i feel by the situation of him looking hungover and tired makes the camera have a more hand held camera effect which does create a story thus adds reality to the photograph.

The problems with this photograph, is the images in the background: the door, and the door frame. These are both pointless within this photograph and take the focus off the main focus point, which is the artist. The door and the door frame, don't have anything to do with the photo therefore are pointless, as it would be different if the artist was connected with the items in the background.

These are the best two photos which i took, which are suitable for the front cover, as they all include the characteristics which in my planning, i wanted to include.
The direct mode of address is a big action which i wanted to include within my front page photograph, the whiteness which juxtaposes with his image and creates an interesting story within the photograph.
The idea of his image is represented correctly with they eye wear he is wearing along with the vintage/ retro clothing suggesting his genre of music. I feel these photographs are strong and really fit the idea of my magazine.

Information on my Magazine production.

I want my name for my magazine to be iconic, remember able and hopefully reflect the genre in which my magazine will promote.

Ultimately, I'd like my magazine to promote every type of legendary music, whether it be Pop, Rock, Classical or even Folk: it has to promote artists of a high quality. Bands or artists which could reflect this are:

Blondie, Britney Spears, Madonna, Kylie Minogue, Razorlight, Bloc Party, Lady Ga Ga, Johnny Cash, Seasick Steve.

This list proves it doesn't necessarily have to include the same genres, just quality artists who have made a stamp on the music industry.



My main focus point, will include an image of the artist which will be featured in the double page spread along with an interview. I want my 'artist' to have a strong individual image which will intrigue the audience as well as have an outrageous manor which, i could pull quote and place it on the front cover.

The artist will be personally be me, thus the name of the artist being 'Jonny Kelly' and his genre of music will be pop-indie-techno, which i believe his outfit will reflect this. I was originally going to dress as neutral as possible for the photo shoot, just like a lot of the NME and Rolling Stone photos where like, however i felt i could create mine slightly more individual, by showing their personal image in a full body shot. Rolling Stone and NME feature artists on the front of their cover, however only seem to feature their face where as i feel it's just as important to feature their full body to really show in detail what their image is, as this usually reflects their genre of music which they dwell in.



On my front cover, i would like mention of other artists including information either about:

Gigs/Tours, CD releases, Artists of 2009 and new music information, Music DVD and film information and possibly a plug/ competition giving away a signed guitar.

These are possible items which can be included on my front page, however i probably won't use all of them as i don't want it to look too crowded on the page and it also wouldn't need all of that extra plugs and lures on the page.

The masthead will be placed at the top of the page and will be the largest text on the page followed by the tag line underneath, depending on what the masthead will be. If the masthead is shortened to a few letters, the tag line will most likely be the full name (the un-shortened version) of my masthead.

Inspiration From Another Magazine: NME Music Magazine

This is a second magazine called NME Music Magazine in which i received a lot of inspiration from for my music front cover to look like:

This is a front cover of NME which feature My Chemical Romance, who create music which fits into the genre of rock.

The photograph of the band seems to be more creative directed, and glamourized then Rolling Stone magazine usually represents their artists as. The lighting of the photograph is an element which does stand out the most as the lighting makes the audience create a feel for the band. The lighting on the main focus point of the image which will obviously be the lead singer: his face is alot more shadowed then his band mates, this automatically makes their band seem to perform the darker music which connotates to the genre of Rock. The lighting could also highlight how the band have a 'dark side' which again connotate the genre of rock. The contrast is strong within the lead singers hair and the darkness between his clothes and shadowing around his eyes, this makes the audience establish how this band are artistic thus the idea of them being interested and influenced by the idea of self expressionism: the genre which this band specialise in, is then reinstated by the idea of self expressionism.

The idea of Kerrang and Rolling Stone respecting their self expressionism creates the idea of this interview being down to earth and seem more focused on their music rather then a certain image a magazine is creating for the band, in order for the magazine to sell.

The angle is all eye level, which again creates this connection between the artist and the audience and also creates the interview seem like an exclusive tell all interview as there is no status division between the two.

This is another cover from NME magazine featuring all time musical legend, Morrissey.

The first thing noticeable is the angle of the photograph, is once again eye level with the audience. This creates the idea of there being no status division between the two, thus giving this interview a world exclusive feel.

He's displaying direct mode of address which is inviting for the audience. He's not healivy glamorized within this photograph which reflects the idea of this artists being naked and telling 'the naked truth' within this interview or story. His hair and his coat are both neutral toned, which again create a connection between the artist and the audience.

The lighting is only on his face which then shadow the other half, this creates mystery surrounding this artist which ultimately intrigue the audience into purchasing the magazine.

In terms of mise-en-scene within this photograph, there are sky scraper buildings which are again neutral toned within this photograph, however the sky scrapers are the same size as him, if he's not taller. This could be seen as slight arrogance in the photograph however, it is also seen as he's top of the world in the music industry, and to get an interview with him in this magazine in revolutionary: this will intrigue the audience to purchase this magazine.

His face seems hard and serious, which could reflect his seriousness for music as well as reflecting the idea that trying to get an interview with this man is difficult.

This is another NME magazine Christmas issue, front cover featuring popular band Arctic Monkeys.

As it's a special Christmas issue, the band have been dressed up in elf like costume which connotate the festive season: Christmas!

The angle is very low in this photograph, creating a dominance effect from the musical band. This could possibly be because of the idea that they're promoting there newest album and the focus to get the Christmas number one is fixating and is almost as important as the presidential campaign, it's important to British culture.

Down lighting has been used to increase dominance for the band as well as creates some mystery as down lighting creates shadowing around ones eye area.

The lead singer is once again is the most dominant in the photograph as he's placed in front of the rest of the band and he is the only band member who you can see all of his body within this shot.

This is again, another cover of NME magazine featuring The Killers who are again, a global class band. In this photograph only his head is visible and he is displaying distinctive features such as eye wear and facial hair which could be iconic for the band themselves.

Although there is only one man present in this picture the name which is underneath is in plural terminology: 'The Killers' therefore you know he's representing the rest of the band, not just himself.

The direct mode of address is inviting towards the audience and engages them within the story and the artist. The look he is giving the audience is he's looking up, through his glasses: this could give the audience an idea of intimidation, this may connotate negative emotions, however with shadowing surrounding his other body parts it individualises the audience, it's as if he's staring intimidatingly at you personally.

The darkness and black colours, i feel represent the idea of an interrogation through the police: and that is what an interview practically is, an interrogation. This can give the idea of this interview being a 'tell all' interview, how he is not aloud to lie or to not answer questions.

All of these NME magazine front covers have their own personal conventions. Some of them being more glamorized photo shoots how ever not so much you can't identify the artist. All of the artists featured are either world class artists, or national iconic artists. They all have their personal image and the magazine, like rolling stone, respects their image and allows them to be photographed as themselves.

The photograph are usually neutral toned, which is again, like the Rolling Stone magazine however some issues may differ, to reflect what is going on through culture, or society at the moment.

I really like the outrage which NME can create, with photo shoots like the naked Beth Ditto reflect the idea which they are out to shock and just promote the newest, and the best music. It seems NME magazine, can be more British based around music, where as Rolling Stone would only feature world class artists as they may believe if no one knows about an artist who are featured on their front cover... it won't sell.

My main inspiration: Rolling Stone Magazine

After analysing different magazine front covers, and how the image of the band of CD covers represent the artist i have decided on the genre of music which i would like to display on my splash and within my double page spread.

I have decided to focus on popular and breakthrough music, i want my magazine to connotate the idea of always printing the newest breakthrough artists of present time, if not attempting to recognise the next big thing within the future.

The main magazine which inspires my thoughts is Rolling Stone Magazine, i love the idea of the publishers featuring artists who are world class quality, rather then just one genre: it's not as limiting. They seem to feature artists who represent themselves, rather then the magazine representing the artist in a certain light in order for the magazine to sell.

In the magazine cover to the left: on the front page is Amy Winehouse. Amy has made the be hive hairstyle iconic within the music industry and her unusual vocal abilty was definatley a break through in the music industry and no ones really heard a voice like hers within present times. Her image seems under her control rather then the magazine styling her in clothes which she wouldn't normally wear. Her make up is also iconic of the singer and this reinstates the idea of her in control over what to wear for this photograph. The clothes she is wearing are very neutral and basic, there are no designer names visible and i feel this is because the magazine wants to focus more on her music, which is what the magazine was created for.


This is another example of the cover from Rolling Stone Magazine, in which is showing a totallyy different genre to the other magazine splash. This just states the contrast between both artists, however this also reinstates the idea of Rolling Stone magazine only printing artists on their front cover, who are world class: never mind the genre differences.


Again the photograph doesn't seem glamorized in any way, it's a plain and simple photograph which again, make it seem the magazine is focusing more on the music side rather then artists life as gossip magazines would. The clothes she is dressed in are neutral toned and don't include any designer names, or include gold which represents the idea of rich. It seems her top is brought up to show her very toned and muscly abdomen, i feel this is reassuring to the audience, as the story may not include much about her private life, but as she did suffer a very public breakdown over the last two years, it seems to show the audience she is doing well and she is once again fit and healthy. Her hair in the photograph doesn't look all done up and smart, in fact it looks a little messy and unkempt, however it seems this fits in with the idea of a very neutral toned photograph, and instead focuses on her natural beauty rather then glamorized beauty.


This is a classic magazine front cover from Rolling Stone magazine. This focuses on Madonna who is an artist in the pop genre. In this photograph, again it's very neutral as she does seem naked in the photograph, perhaps this is a technique for the interview to seem 'the naked truth' which intrigues the audience. She seems to have very little make up on her skin which again reinstates the idea of her being naked in the shoot, apart from her bright red lipstick which once again seems to be designed by her to wear, rather then a stylist.
It seems Rolling Stone has always had the same idea of how they want to represent their artist which are featured on the front page of their magazine, and this is very neutral and to the audience: the artist has to seem neutral and natural almost.
The angle on this photograph seems more of a low angle then the other photographs in the more present date of Rolling Stone magazine front covers, i feel she was personally trying to create an image for herself as she was revolutionary in the music industry and at the peak of her success why not? The idea of this low angle creates this arrogance surround her, however if she's too good for other normal interviews, this one must be an amazing interview. It's manipulating the audiences emotions to make them intrigued within the magazine as well as be intrigued within her as an artist.


This is another Rolling Stone Cover featuring an all male rock band. One again, the photograph is not glamorized in any way, the clothes don't seem to be designer and the brand of the clothes are not being flaunted in anyway.

There is one topless band member within the photograph and he doesn't seem to be that toned or muscly as other artists are in the music industry, i feel is to represent the stereotype of them simply not caring what they look like as they feel the importance is in face self expressionism and their ultimate passion is music rather then other artists may be criticised for their passion seems to be more about image and how they're represented. Their image seems the same idea as the Kerrang magazine front cover so their image does seem how they genuinely dress and express themselves: this is almost proof with the idea of the magazine stylists not contradicting what the artists can wear and can't wear. It's also proving the idea of Rolling Stone magazine wanting the band to be themselves in the photograph and the fact of the magazine not changing their image to sell their magazine.

The angle again is eye level with the camera which connects with the audience and doesn't create a status division between the two.

The band seem to be represented equally apart from the topless band member, however even so he's still only showing as much of his body as the other band members are: but he is more in front. Perhaps it reflects the idea of his personal life being in the spotlight more then his band mates are, he may feel the need to talk more in his interview to set the record straight about lies or stories which are in the spotlight.



This is another cover of Rolling Stone featuring Justin Timberlake who's music fits in with the R'n'B and Pop genre.
His photograph is very neutral, just a plain t-shirt and blue jeans. His T-shirt is wet, which when clothes are wet they cling on to the wearers body, which is exactly what is going on in this photograph, it just so happens he has to have a well toned and muscly body which will attract the female and some male audience just for how he looks. He's carrying a guitar, which is a musical instrument: this reflects the idea of the artists featured on Rolling Stone magazine, has to have a passion for music and this musician does.
The camera is eye level which assures the audience there isn't a status division between the artist and the audience which creates a connection between the both.
This photograph is again not glamorized in anyway, there is not visible make up on the artist and also his hair has simply just been shaved.
The lighting is just natural normal light, there are no low lighting used it's just basic natural light used in the shot.

The Rolling Stone magazine, simply has the same characteristics for their front cover. There always seems to be an artist or a band who have been/ or are revolutionary in the music industry. The genre isn't limited as they basically feature any world class artist or breakthrough artist in the industry. I like the way the magazine creates the idea of the fact there is no status division between the audience and the artist as well as the idea all of the artists featured, the story is focused on the music rather then the artists private life which would lower the class and their ideology of the magazine.

Slipknot CD analysis

This is a CD cover for the metal-rock band Slipknot.

The main focus point is obviously the image, the image shows a group of people, stood up in a field full of dead crops. There is a tree in the background and the sky is dark and grey which could possibly mean their is a storm on the way/ heavy rain.

The camera shot this frame in a long shot distance, which i feel could have been used to introduce all of the band; also to show the surroundings which help estbalish the band and their genre. The angle of the shot is low angle which makes the band appear in a dominating light to the audience, it makes them seem powerfull. This is one contrast between the expectations for artists who perform through the pop genre, their album covers seem to be eye level to connect with their audience, where as R'n'B and slipknot are using this technique i believe to seem like an inspiration to their audience. This may seem like a boastfull thing to do however if teenagers see these artists in a powerfull, god like light their is still a large chance of these teenagers idolising the band. The low angle, also makes them seem the best of the best of what they do within this genre, so if you do purchase this CD it'll be the best rock-metal music CD available.

On the cover, at the bottom there is a sticker advising on 'parental guidence' this reflects the image i believe which they was to represent, the idea of rebbeling through music also reinstates the idea of the ideology in which Kerrang is representing: the idea of rebelling and self expressionism.

One convention which isn't dispayed on the CD cover, is the name of the band and the title of the album, i feel they challanged the conventions to make themselves look different then other artists, however i also feel they don't need to display their name in big red writing, as their image is so iconic: the idea they wear horrifying masks with needles spiking out and masks which are faciel expressionless: it's their image which they've always had, and since they are the only band who feel the need to rebel and individualise themselves however, this seems to have worked as they've made their image an iconic one and also makes their image a unique selling point of their music. The album cover title, however isn't displayed either, i feel this is used to challange the idea of conforming to natural conventions, again it reinstates the idea of this band wanting to rebel, as conforming is a safe option, rebelling is a lot more exciting and dangerous.

There is a layerd opaque image over the main image, which is over the band: this is a pentagram which is connotated a lot with whitch craft. This reinstates their idea of gothism within their indeology, which connects with the idea of rebel as whitch craft can still be seen as evil. This is why pentagrams connect with this genre so well, as they're both a taboo subeject, witchcraft and Gothism. Witch Craft was written about in gothic stories, and i believe they've reinstated that as their logo, as it's iconic of witch craft which branches off to being iconic with the genre of Gothism. I think it has been layed over in an opaque fashion, to reinstate the idea of their genre of music in which they specilise. The audience will first, look at the band and their image will establish their genre of metal-rock, however by then looking at the subtlties, such as the pentagram: and the genre is reinstated as metal-rock.

In terms of representation, i feel the artists are placed within a light where they do take personal image with much importance, however their importance is to shock the audience. Kerrang magazine would feature this band within their magazine, as Kerrang seem to promote self expresionism with the idea to shock. I feel their target audience could honestly be anyone, however appart from young children and old people, as their music is not helivy depedant on one patential audience, such as a band like 'Sugababes,' they heavily depend on the younger, girl audience as their genre is Teen-Pop. Whereas Slipknot, are world class musicians who write their own music, and i feel this is what people may appretiate more, the fact they are passionate about the music they produce, where as bands like 'Sugababes' and 'Girls Aloud' depend on songwriters to write music for themselves. I also feel the idea of the way they've been photographed, with long distance from the audience and a low angle: stating their domincance, and the idea of them being too good musicians for you to be close to: it may seem an arrogant thing to do. However, i feel this connects with the patential audience, and basically says 'your paying for this brilliant music, because we are brilliant musicians.'

A CD cover analysis Circus

This is an album cover for Britney Spears' most recent album: Circus. An album consist of conventionally 10-12 music tracks, however can include bonus tracks to intrigue the audience more.

The main image is always the main focus point, it seems albums have to include an interesting, attractive looking picture of the artist as this is one of the selling points as it exploits the genre and creates expectations for the genre of music and for the artist. The image is of the artist sat down looking at the camera. The camera angle is eye level, which like the magazines gives the audience the idea of being able to connect with the artist as there is no social status division between the two: this would be different if it was a low angle shot making the artist appear more dominant and powerful, this however, makes it hard for the audience to connect with the artist as there is a clear social division between them. The eye level theory can also make their music seem from their heart, and how they are feeling: it's personally from them. Her face seems to be very bare and has lack of make-up, i feel this enables the audience to see her as they haven't before, and by being viewed with no make-up it's almost like an exclusive look into her life and who she actually is as a person, rather how then the media perceive her to be. Her pose seems shy, perhaps with Britney Spears record of having a very public meltdown this shows a softer side to her, her vulnerability to the world, this connects well with the idea of the media twisting and making up lies about her life, how she can only tell the truth through her music: this is reinstated by the eye level camera angle. Her hair looks soft and long, this creates the idea of the femininity she has, and shows her in a good light, photograph wise, the hair is blonde which can connect with the idea her being young and of course she is vulnerable as there seems nothing more to be vulnerable then a young woman. Her costume consists of a pink dress, the colour is baby pink which again reinstates the idea of her vulnerability she has as a young woman. The dress isn't a revealing one which exploits her dignity and respect for herself which is seen as a good role model possibly in the eyes of the audience, this allows the target audience to be widened from the older audiences to the younger audiences as well. The photograph seems really intimate and allows the audience to see a side of Britney Spears which the media possibly wouldn't let you see: however, this is what an album is supposed to consist of, the idea of the audience seeing the artist for who they are through the music which they produce.

The text and font is seems to be used, all to add effect to the CD cover. The largest text on the cover states the artists name 'BRITNEY SPEARS' it stands out as it's in capital letters, this is eye catching and someone browsing in a music store would possibly see this CD first then others. The colour of the text is red, this could connotate to the idea of being 'Brand new and Red Hot Album!' It reflects excitement from the album, and creates excited within the buyers. It's also typical for a circus tent to include two expected colours: Yellow and Red, as circus tents include these colours in strips on their tents. The text is shaped as a tent, the 'Y' and 'S' in her name is the peak and the name follows up from 'Britney' and then follows down with the name 'Spears.' It's a stereotype of a circus being held in a tent, however with a circus theme being such a strong theme, the circus stereotype will be noticed and expected world wide, and this shaping of the font meets the audiences expectations therefore don't confuse the potential audiences. The font they've used for the artists name, is a quite show girl font, and is very circus themed: it's connotations include circus and performance.

The title of her album 'circus' is printed underneath her name, the text is smaller which is understandable as the name of the artist is a main focus point as if people are looking for an artists music, they search for the artist's name; rather then the title of the album. The text is in the colour mustard yellow which connects with the idea of the circus tent, with the tents expected to be striped with two basic colours: Red and Yellow. By using Yellow, it creates a variation within the album cover by including other colours as the album has to eye catching and interesting and by only placing one basic colour pallet, it isn't attracting the audiences attention as it could be. At the side of the album title 'Circus' there are two signes, these i feel help introduce the title as they are pointing towards it from each sides so it feels like an introductory feel. There are stars all the way around the album cover i feel this flatters the artist, saying to the audience how she is star quality, it also centres the artist making her the most noticeable thing in that album cover. The stars are a baby blue, which i feel reflects the vulnerably of the artist, however i also feel this reflects the idea of her being an 'out of this world' artist, as stars could connotate space, and out of this world.

In terms of representation: i feel this artist is being represented as clean, young and fresh. This is perfect for targeting the younger audiences as parents view the image she is portrayed in, and if they like the clean image they trust the artist for the music they produce: this is presenting Britney Spears in a clean, trustworthy light. Hip Hop artists are often photographed with all their jewelry and big expensive cars which have a negative effect upon a parents decision whether their children should listen to their music. By representing the artist in an honest light, it's widening the target audience. I feel every time an artist releases a new album, they should always represent themselves in a positive light for audience, who don't originally know the artist could feel they could potentially like their music through the representation of the artist.

The audience i feel who would buy this CD would be teenage girls, and all time fans who have been appreciating her music since she started out in the music business. Her clean, pretty image appeals to teenagers as they are bound to support some idolisation towards the artist. Her music is focused on dance-pop: people who buy this i feel will be more interested in the idea of escapism they can receive from the album, it's ideal to listen to from escapism from the stress when you're getting ready for a night out, dance-pop music builds up the excitement you feel for the night ahead.

Another magazine analysis: NME

This is another magazine specialising in music, other magazines like this include Kerrang, Mojo and Q magazine. Nme, like Kerrang, have extended their media cooperation: by investing in the NME music channel on sky television, NME tour and awards and are even the sponserers of Leeds Music Festival. Musical artists are mainly from the indie genre with artists such as: Beth Ditto, Kaiser Chiefs, The Twang, The Editors and a lot more. The genre’s which aren’t involved within this magazine are Artists from the Dance genre, artists such as Cascada and Ultra Beat, or artists from the R’n’B genre such as Beyonce or Chris Brown, it seems like Kerrang this is another very limiting magazine in terms of the difference in genres. The stylistic features of this genre are similar to the Kerrang magazine although isn’t as heavy in promoting self expressionism, the indie genre, however also has an attitude with their artists which is reinstated within the headline ’Kiss My Ass!’ it’s also reinstated by the photograph as well which establishes the attitude which surrounds this genre. The content of this genre are again quite similar to the Kerrang magazine, the content which is guaranteed is gig information in the back of the magazine, it includes information on tickets for the gigs and artist information who are planning gigs etc. Other content are interviews with bands which are typical for these magazines as well as website urls to exclusive album previews, every content is all musical based.

The masthead spells NME is bold, bring red font on top of black. The red creates a feeling for the magazine, how the magazine includes ‘red, hot music!’ which is what your buying the magazine for, to be in the know about brand new, hot music. The idea of the letters being in capitals reinstate the idea of the indie rock, which is a sub genre of rock music being loud and ‘in-your-face,’ however also makes the magazine stand out for the audience, it’s eye catching. On the headline they’ve used an almost ‘joker’ like font, this reflects the attitude for the artist and the genre, how artists creating music in this musical genre just seem to want to have a good time, and if anyone tries to stop them, the sub headline states ‘Kiss my ass!’ Again the headline of the artists name is in red which connects with the masthead, however also reflects the idea of this artist being ‘Red hot, brand new and happening!’ I feel they have printed the subhead line in Black for this states the seriousness of how she feels as it’s also a pull quote. The plug stating ‘Free poster’ is white on red, I feel this is used honestly for variation of colours however, they’ve cleverly created the word ‘Free’ a lot more bold and larger then the other words in that plug. The font of the plug is just the standard Times New Roman font which makes it seem like serious deal to the audience. Over all the heaviest font is obviously the masthead which is a convention of magazines, the second heaviest seems to obviously be the headline followed by the subhead line. The photograph of Beth Ditto is taken in long shot portrait and this is the only photograph on the front cover, apart from the cut outs used as a plug. Beth is naked in this photo and the lighting instead of creating shadows which is what we’d expect to hide explicit parts on her body, she uses her arms and legs to hide them and the lighting lights up the whole photograph, which errors out shadowing, this gives the idea of her being open and not hid away. This is the technique they used on the Britney Spears photograph on Rolling Stone magazine. It creates the idea of the artist being open and honest in the obvious interview or main story, which will intrigue the audience. The only star photographed on the page is Beth who is a female; and I feel this is what audience are looking for, a female who is breaking the stereotype of how a female should act, it shocks the audience therefore intriguing them into wanting to read about them. They’re all arranged by using the conventions of an average magazine, Masthead is the largest, boldest text at the top with the tagline underneath. The largest photograph is what the head line is based on, there are plugs and lurs involved, these are smaller then the main features of the magazine and are also placed out of the way to the left.

The colour as a whole on the page is pretty much the simple colour pallet of the conventional WOB/BOW and also red and yellow. The good thing about this colour pallet is it’s very eye catching to the audience as well as shows the magazine off in a positive light as it’s reassuring the audience how this magazine only includes the hottest, newest music. The main item on the page which you notice is the picture and the headline, they are the main focus points of the piece as it’s such a striking photograph of a naked overweight lady I feel they proposed that photograph for that very reason, the headline and subhead line are the following focus points of the front page. You then focus upon the masthead and the plugs after that, I feel a good magazine front page has to keep the audience interested from every main focus point the audience look at. The red text all connects with the red masthead, and also connects with the photograph as Beth has a lipstick kiss print on her ‘ass’ thus the metaphorical headline is then related to the photograph: all of the elements of text and image relate to each other or at least back to the masthead, I feel this is a good idea, as it reinstates and embeds the masthead into the audiences mind. I feel the cover basically makes what the magazine has inside obvious to the reader: the idea of this magazine almost rebelling in a sort of way, it’s promoting the idea of people to break the stereotype and telling people they don’t have to be what others want to them to be.
The masthead of ‘NME’ stands for ‘New Music Express’ which is also the tagline underneath the masthead. The idea for ‘New Music’ reinstates the idea of why the audience is purchasing this magazine, for the new music, this is also reinstated by the colour of the Masthead being red, it reflects the idea of it being brand new, hottest music. The word ‘express’ creates the feeling of this magazine being fast in some way, whether it’s by delivery or the time of it being published it’s a positive term within the title even if it is unclear the meaning behind the term is, it only gives off a positive connotations for the magazine.

The main focus point, the photograph is of Beth Ditto posing naked. The angle is slightly lower, so she is looking down, this creates a dominating effect which connects with the idea of her posing naked, it’s as if she is a role model posing naked on the stage for everybody to view. Her facial expression comes across as quite hard faced which reinstates the idea of her being a dominant figure. Her make-up is quite harsh on her face and is involved with the idea of her having a hard face. This photograph creates an attitude which also sets an example for the magazine, the attitude she has reflects the pull quote to the right of the photograph the photograph basically looks like she’s telling people to ‘Kiss My Ass!’ the photograph creates the idea she’s a role model by doing this because of the harsh criticism any woman could receive for doing anything like that, the contrast of women’s roles: now compared to 50 years ago, women would never do anything like that, as well as the idea of this woman being overweight proves the confidence and with overweight people receiving negative comments quite regularly through the media again, she again could be seen as a role model. I think the photographs represent women as confident humans, rather then the stereotype which they have seemed to receive over the years while their husbands are the breadwinners for the family. The magazine is basically saying says people can do what they want now a days, weather it’s pose naked or exploit their sexual orientation, why should people care what other people do? This reflects the idea of the Indie genre as well, as indie stands for individual: it’s reinstating the idea of artists writing their music how they want about what they want: I feel it represents freedom within society.
This magazine seems to be operating in anyone with a love for music of the Indie genre, and self expressionism. I feel it challenges the status quo as it’s representing women as loud confident humans rather then the stereotyped house cleaners, it’s also challenging the status quo by showing an overweight women on their front cover, where as on other magazines and papers they only seem to show naked skinny women. It seems to reflect society a lot more then other magazines do however, challenges the status quo by breaking the stereotype people have gathered from certain social groups. The magazine seems to support women rights, as well as the idea of accepting the way overweight women exist in society, not just skinny women. It supports the idea self expressionism through music and the idea of individuality through out humans.

I feel this media text makes it’s money by printing what people want to read about, the idea of it supporting the idea of individuality and promoting individuality in music. It’s realising society printed in magazines isn’t necessarily the society of today, with women cleaning the home rather then working, it doesn’t really happen anymore. Other piece’s of media in which is connected is television, as it has some information regarding the television show ‘peep show.’ Again, the market is great for publications like this as indie music is becoming a lot more popular however, just like the karrang and Rolling Stone, the one problem is just they’re expansive magazines to buy. I feel again, the audience have strong control over the content in the magazine, for to keep it as close to real society, it has to be aware and listen otherwise it would become another magazine which stereotypes society and musical artists. I feel it’s views are very independent as it has to be to remain a good indie music based magazine. After all it can’t really care too much what people think, as it has a photograph of a naked women on the front of the page.

Another Music Magazine Analysis, Kerrang.

This is another magazine which specialises in music, called Kerrang. Other similar magazines include NME magazine, Smash Hits and Top Of The Pops magazine. Kerrang has spread it's entertainment cooperation by creating the Kerrang awards, The Kerrang tour, Kerrang Radio and Kerrang music channel on Sky Tv. There only seems to be one perticular genre represented within this front page, which is rock music for it's is only freaturing rock artists. The genre's which aren't included within this front page are R'n'B artists, dance artists, pop musical artists etc obviously because the institution would only want to inform the audience on one perticular genre of music, which is part of their values and beliefs. The stylistc features of the genre include the dark colours included on the splash as well as the title's font and their tagline which they've used, these are all the stylistic features which give a grunginess feel towards the magazine. The photographs are heavily shawdowed which creates more darkness within the splash. The font has a classic vintage look to it, which creates the feeling of passion for music. There are WOB text used to create contrast and aswell as make the page darken to fit with the representation. It's obvious this musical genre is Rock, content typical of this genre is body art which includes piercings, hair, make-up and tattoos as it's representational for Rock musical artist to express themselves through art and music so content of this magazine could include a certain clothing brand as well as tattoo and piercing information. Other content which is typical for the genre is gig information in the back of the magazines, if you look at the back of these magazines really passionate about music you will always find a lot of gig information in the back of upcoming shows and ticket information and also other band information.

The fonts used seem to be art based and designed to exploit the genre, which is rock. The font of the masthead is very roughly what seems to be free hand drawn on, this already gives the idea of self expressionism which seems to create an attitude about the magazine from just looking at the masthead. The colour of the masthead is black which connects with the overall pallet of the splash and also suggests their passion for the magazine and music. The masthead has an explanation mark at the end which also makes the masthead connect with the tagline however, this also reinstates the idea of the genre being rock as rock music is usually connected with the idea of being played really loudley which again reinstates this idea of self expresianism of doing what you want when you want, almost a type of rebelling. The logo under the masthead is printed in yellow which does connect with the other plugs and lurs include the colour in on the splash, however i believe it's used for the fact yellow: is a colour which is very attention grabbing, as you get yellow postits, yellow illuminous jackets on road workers and yellow traffic cones it's a very noticable colour, and i believe it's used to grab the audiences attention however, i also believe it's used to create a variation within the splash and thus making it more interesting and intreguing for the audience. The size of the text varies, the masthead is the biggest as this is a convention of magazine therefore this is expected, however the tagline is over layed the masthead rather then printed underneath, i feel this present an attitude for the magazine and again, also could promote self expressionism thus creating the attitude of rebelion: To tag something is to grafiti you're sign on an object, the idea i believe came from an interpretation of the word 'tagline' trying to design which will connect with the younger audience even more. The headline, is displayed over the image and with the main image colour pallet being dark, the white text displays the contrast thus making it more eye catching for the audience. The sub headling is conventionally placed underneath the headline and printed with smaller text, the colour of this is yellow which then again connects with the tagline however also catches the audiences eye and make the magazine more visable to on lookers. The photograph reflects the dark pallet of the splash with the band membors wearing dark colours: blue, black and brown which is also blended in within the black background: i feel this is trying to promote the idea of the passion and seriousness behind this magazine and also with rock music being associated with dark colours, the colours aswell kind of establish the genre to the audience. Again, like the rolling stone magazine, the photograph is taken with eye level which makes the audience able to connect with the artists as there is no status divide between them, they are completley eye level and able to connect. All of the photographs on this front page are male, it seems to be a very male dominated splash, however the plug 'sexiest men in rock' i believe weigh the gender audience out as it's obvious this magazine is targetted at teenagers, and the younger audience.

The page element is put together again, by the convetions of magazines. With the masthead at the very top with the largest, boldest text. The main focus point, the image, is based in the middle making it the most noticable item on the splash, followed by the headline which according to the conventions should be underneath the image thus supporting the story, the sub headline is then underneath that in a smaller text, holding more informaiton into the story: these again are all conventions which alot of other magazines use, these are a good technique because the audiences are used to seeing these codes and conventions everyday: and if one magazine suddenly decides not to use them, it's confusing for the audience. The colour i believe the dark pallet is used to establish the genre and reflect the seriousness of the magazine and how they feel about music. The photographs relate to the text and magazine: because their music fits in with the genre the magazine is promoting, Fall Out Boy create rock music, therefore it's featured in a rock magazine.

I believe the title of 'Kerrang!' denotates the idea of onomataphia reflecting the genre of rock. The sound of an electric guitar could reflect this onomatopaic word, which then again reflects the genre of the magazine witch is rock music and electric guitars are the dominance of rock music.

The main focus point, the photograph of the two musicians are warm and inviting, it also relfects the elxclusive side as you're seeing these musicans posing as them selves having a good time rather then how the marketing expert would make them pose for their album cover. The audience can't really see their costume, instead one of the musicians has his tattoos showing which reinstates the idea of promting self expresionism as a key feature throughout this magazine, the shadowing throughout the photograph is very shadowed which contributes to overall colour pallet of the magazine front cover. Their hair is very neutral which reinstates the idea of this being exclusive and as they're trying to connect with the average working class audience, they're not trying to sepereate the class divide as this could distance patential audiences.

It seems the representation through this magazine seems to basically be promoting self expresionism through body art, with all of the artists on the front page fitting in with this self expressionism theory, as they're all expressing themselves through art, wheather it be make-up, piercings or tattoos.

It's breaking the stereotype between men and women: with only women wearing make-up, as a male artist on the front page of this magazine is wearing make-up which again, reinstates the idea of promoting rebellious as well as self expresionism behavior. The splash is very white ethnic based which i believe is based from culture, as it sadly expected to find artist of other ethnic groups possibly in the R'n'B genre, this magazine isn't breaking the stereotype it's reinstating it which is basically being safe with the audience. The social status representation, is cleaver: as it's asuring the audience these musical artists are on the same social level by using eye leval camera angles and by making the photographs as neutral in terms of props this is contributing to this feeling. It would be different if the artists included a designer shirt in the photograph, or a designer bag: that would be seperating the social status, were as in these photographs there is none of that the audiences can fully connect with the artists featured.

The magazine is providing information for people who have interest in rock music. I believe it tries to challenge the status quo, as it photographs men wearing make-up and we wouldn't normally whitness this either in person or in other magazines: it seems their trying to continuesly individualise them selves as a magazine. The magazine seems to support the values of self expressionism with men wearing make-up and having a full arm of tattoos and face full of piercings; it supports the ideas of the stereotypical rock star.

The media text makes money by selling music magazines, advertisements on both: the radio station and the music channel. The interest of the reader are very important, as the magazine is targetting young adults the magazine is obviously not going to sell if it does not publish views with don't intreige or a view in which the audience cannot connect with, magazine's like this need to listen to the audience's views as the magazine is for the audience. The other media interests link with kerrang are the music channel and radio station: so this institution is very musical based rather then publishing what alot of other magazines choose to do to widen their patential audience by placing in information about film and actors: this is just strictly rock music. The market place is good for publications like this as institutions realised how teens spend more money on entertainment (films, games, fashion and music) therefore the film companies started to target films for the teenage patential audience, and magzines are also trying to do this: Teen vogue, Now for Teens, TOTP magazine, Sugar magazine excetera. I feel it tries to controll it's content after all if a concerned mother if she reads their childs Kerrang magazine and sees innapropriate content she won't allow her child to obviously read that magazine again; thus i believe the public have a large say in which content is published. I feel it's content is very indipendant, as the institution don't want the same magazine published by another company, as thats competition, it's better if the magazine tries to stay completley individual so no other magazines can be made just like it.