Once the must-have purchase for any reputable (and many a disreputable) indie music fan, the NME, is set to return to print.
However, it won’t be going weekly, the music title will instead be a “bi-monthly bible for music and pop culture.”
According to its publisher, each edition will showcase new bands and artists, alongside “exclusive new franchises, unmissable features, industry insight and expert reviews of the latest music, TV, film, and gaming releases.”
The NME was established in 1952 and launched the careers of music journalists like Steve Lamacq, Nick Kent, Paul Morley, Steven Wells, David Quantick, Peter Robinson, Sylvia Patterson, Julie Burchill and Barbara Ellen.
It went out of print in 2018, moving solely online apart from occasional one-off specials and a title in Australia.
“Print has always been a cornerstone of the NME brand, and we are thrilled to announce the return of an icon,” said NME Networks’ Chief Operating & Commercial Officer of NME Networks Holly Bishop.
“Our new global magazine will curate the very best of NME; championing emerging artists and bands and serving as the definitive voice in pop culture.”
The NME stated that the new magazine would have a “dynamic” new design and content refresh. Each issue will be fronted by an edition of The Cover: NME’s existing flagship editorial property that champions emerging talent.
“Today, we announce NME’s return to print with a brand new global magazine, offering an immersive journey celebrating the best in music, film, TV and gaming,” said Group Chief Executive Officer & Founder of parent company Caldecott Music Group Meng Ru Kuok,
“Building on our commitment to supporting the new talent shaping the future of music and the industry itself, we are prouder than ever to showcase and immortalise emerging artists in our new global edition.
“NME has never reached more people than it does today, and we’re excited to embrace our legacy, giving emerging artists the recognition and exposure they truly deserve while creating new synergies and opportunities for both talent and fans.”
The July/August issue of NME magazine will have exclusive worldwide availability through music retailer Dawsons – which is also owned by Singapore-based Caldecott Music Group. There will be limited issue drops through artists, record stores and select partners.
