October 17, 2025
The 2 publications will crew as much as broaden hip-hop protection.
VIBE and Rolling Stone are becoming a member of forces in a merger geared toward strengthening and increasing hip-hop and R&B protection throughout each legacy music manufacturers.
Introduced on Oct. 16, the partnership will broaden VIBE’s protection of hip-hop and R&B on Rolling Stone whereas diving deeper into hip-hop tradition, Billboard studies. As a part of the collaboration, VIBE will launch particular collector’s print editions and debut a brand new video interview collection spotlighting influential figures throughout music, sports activities, and style.
VIBE’s longtime editor-in-chief, Datwon Thomas, will function strategic advisor to help with the transition.
“Coming again to VIBE on this position is deeply significant to me, and I’m proud to stay related to such an iconic model that has been such a giant a part of my life,” Thomas stated. “The chance to assist information VIBE into the following section of its progress and continued legacy is an honor.”
The merger can have Rolling Stone investing in VIBE throughout video, podcasts, longform journalism, social media, and experiential initiatives.
Stated Julian Holguin, CEO of Rolling Stone, “This historic team-up will allow Rolling Stone to stage up the publication’s hip-hop and R&B protection, permitting RS to dive deeper into the tradition.”
Legendary music visionary Quincy Jones based VIBE in 1993.
“VIBE will proceed to energy cultural conversations and reestablish itself as a driving pressure for commentary and reporting,” Holguin stated. “Our purpose is to proceed the mission VIBE was based on whereas leveraging Rolling Stone to amplify its presence throughout all platforms.”
The merger of the 2 Penske Media Corp. (PMC) manufacturers comes one month after MRC—proprietor of The Hollywood Reporter and Billboard—and PMC—writer of Rolling Stone, Selection, and Deadline—introduced the creation of a joint publishing enterprise combining their editorial manufacturers.
Following the announcement, revered R&B journalist Mya Abraham confirmed her departure from VIBE as a result of merger.
“As a result of VIBE/Rolling Stone merger, my time as R&B Reporter has come to an finish,” Abraham wrote on X. “I’m nonetheless processing right now’s information, so bear with me as I get by the calls/texts/emails/DMs. Simply understand it’s been the enjoyment and honor of my life to doc R&B on this capability. 🤎”
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