FRONT COVER ANALYSIS OF Q
Q is a popular alternative magazine, founded and produced in the United Kingdom. Originally, the magazine was produced by EMAP music group in 1986, however in 2008 EMAP sold Q to the Bauer Media Group. The average price of the magazine is £3.90 per issue and it is produced monthly. The target audience of this magazine is the older generation, but mainly those in their 30s and 40s. This is because the magazine was designed for those who wish to hear about their favourite artist’s music, not gossip like other magazines talk about. It also has a circulation of 44,050 (Jul-Dec 2015).
​
The name originated from the word ‘cue’, as in cueing a record, however it was changed to Q to ensure it was not mistake for a snooker based magazine. Additionally, the fact that it is a singular letter makes it more prominent and bold.
The masthead is very simple, yet the simplicity makes it bold as well as eye catching and easy to remember. Likewise, the bright white Q strikes against the red background, making it stand out and contrast nicely. The constant use of this logo makes it very easy for readers to know what magazine it is, therefore it can be partially covered by the main image. Also, the simplicity of the logo and professional font help to indicate the maturity of the magazine, linking with the fact that it is for an older audience. In addition, the use of the strapline “THE WORLD’S GREATEST MUSIC MAGAZINE” will help to draw in the attention of the public as they will wish to see what makes the magazine the best.
The main image is of the band ‘Green Day’, showing the audience that they are the main article in this issue. Their faces are all quite serious and all of the members are making direct eye contact which makes the reader feel very involved with the magazine due to audience feeling as if they are looking directly at them. All of the members are also wearing dark clothes, which contrast nicely with the bright white, red and blue writing. Similarly, the dark clothes help to represent the alternative rock music the band performs. The only other images involved is a picture of Jonny Marr, another main article in this magazine, and a small image representing the Q awards.
The main coverline is ‘GREEN DAY’. The fact that this is in capital letters as well as a larger font helps to attract the reader’s attention as it lures them in. Similarly, the bold red writing contrasts against the white box, meeting the house style whilst engaging the reader to what to find out more about the band. However, the magazine has multiple other coverlines which are also in a large, bold font helping the reader to focus on what the main articles are. These also consist of band names, such as ‘Metallica’ and ‘Madness’, all who identify as a rocky alternative genre therefore meeting the target market. The font is sans-serif, making it clear and mature so the target audience can read it.