Rolling Stone for Wenner Media
Head off the challenge to Rolling Stone from the insurgent titles Blender and Maxim.
What sets Rolling Stone apart is the commitment to Art – primarily illustration, photography and great writing.
So my first task was to hire a powerhouse art department of Kory Kennedy, Devin Pedzwater and Matthew Ball to help commission the hundreds of illustrations required, such as this great image of The Grateful Dead by Philippe Lardy.
Then it was all about the photography. Working with Albert Watson, Martin Schoeller, Ruven Afanador, Matthew Rolston and others, Rolling Stone’s access to the world’s biggest stars was a critical tool in maintaining competitive advantage. Cover shoots were commissioned of Beyoncé, Bruce Springsteen, Angelina Jolie, The Strokes and many more. Buzzfeed’s 15 favourite Rolling Stone covers during my tenure is here.
Sales and ad revenue increased. Twenty three merit awards and a silver medal for illustration were also won at the prestigious SPD Awards. Blender couldn’t stand the competition and closed.
