Rolling Stone US debut new print and digital look, higher price point

The Aussie outpost of Rolling Stone may have folded back in February but its US mother has debuted a makeover for its print and digital content, as well as a higher cost price.

“Welcome to the new Rolling Stone,” begins a note to readers included in the July issue of the mag, which features a pregnant Cardi B and husband Offset on the cover.

“The magazine appears in a big, bold, glossy format, with more pages and richer photography.

“Each issue will feature more new music, more political coverage, more of the best and brightest in pop culture. Our logo has also undergone a subtle but significant update.”

The new Rolling Stone comes with a price hitch from US$5.99 to US$9.99, as well as a significantly reduced circulation from 1.45 million to 650,000.

There has been growth in the company, however, with 13 new staff being hired within the last year.

In 2017, a majority of the iconic brand was sold to Penske Media, whose other publications include Variety, Deadline and WWD.

“The Rolling Stone business has a unique balance of mission and impact, not to mention some of the most talented content creators and investigative journalists,” CEO of Penske Media, Jay Penske said.

“There is so much opportunity ahead for this incredible business and brand – the relaunch is just the beginning.”