Rolling Stone magazine has been a cultural icon since its inception in 1967. Founded by Jann Wenner and music critic Ralph Gleason, it quickly became the go-to source for music news, political coverage, and pop culture commentary. But how much do you really know about this legendary publication? From its humble beginnings in San Francisco to its influence on music and politics, Rolling Stone has a storied history filled with fascinating tidbits. Did you know it was named after a Bob Dylan song? Or that it played a pivotal role in the careers of many famous writers and musicians? Buckle up as we dive into 39 intriguing facts about Rolling Stone that will surprise even the most devoted fans.
The Birth of Rolling Stone
Rolling Stone magazine has been a cultural icon for decades, shaping music, politics, and pop culture. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this legendary publication.
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Rolling Stone was founded in 1967 by Jann Wenner and music critic Ralph J. Gleason in San Francisco. It quickly became a voice for the counterculture movement.
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The magazine's name was inspired by the Muddy Waters song "Rollin' Stone," Bob Dylan's hit "Like a Rolling Stone," and the Rolling Stones band.
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John Lennon graced the first cover of Rolling Stone. The debut issue featured a photo of Lennon from the film "How I Won the War."
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Rolling Stone initially cost 25 cents. The first issue was published on November 9, 1967, and had a circulation of about 40,000 copies.
Iconic Covers and Interviews
Rolling Stone is famous for its covers and in-depth interviews with celebrities and influential figures.
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The magazine's covers are legendary. Some of the most iconic include a naked John Lennon curled around Yoko Ono, and a young Britney Spears in a suggestive pose.
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Hunter S. Thompson's "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" was first serialized in Rolling Stone in 1971. This work became a cornerstone of Gonzo journalism.
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Rolling Stone interviewed every U.S. president from Jimmy Carter to Barack Obama. These interviews often provided deep insights into their policies and personalities.
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The magazine has won numerous awards for its journalism, including the National Magazine Award for General Excellence.
Cultural Impact
Rolling Stone has had a significant influence on music, politics, and culture over the years.
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The magazine played a key role in the careers of many artists, including Bruce Springsteen, who appeared on the cover multiple times.
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Rolling Stone's "500 Greatest Albums of All Time" list is highly regarded. It was first published in 2003 and has been updated several times.
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The magazine has been criticized for its lack of diversity in its lists and covers. Efforts have been made to address these issues in recent years.
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Rolling Stone's political coverage has been influential. The magazine has published groundbreaking stories on topics like the Watergate scandal and the Iraq War.
Changes and Challenges
Like any long-standing publication, Rolling Stone has faced its share of changes and challenges.
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The magazine went digital in the early 2000s, launching a website to complement its print edition.
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In 2017, Rolling Stone was sold to Penske Media Corporation. This marked the end of Jann Wenner's control over the magazine.
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Rolling Stone has faced lawsuits over the years. One notable case involved a retracted story about an alleged sexual assault at the University of Virginia.
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The magazine has adapted to changing times, covering a broader range of topics, including technology and social issues.
Fun Facts
Here are some lighter, fun facts about Rolling Stone that you might not know.
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The magazine has its own archive. Rolling Stone's archive is housed at the University of Texas at Austin, containing over 100,000 items.
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Rolling Stone has inspired movies. Films like "Almost Famous" and "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" have connections to the magazine.
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The Rolling Stone logo was designed by artist Rick Griffin. It's one of the most recognizable logos in the publishing world.
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Rolling Stone has a radio show. "Rolling Stone Music Now" features interviews and discussions about music and pop culture.
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The magazine's reviews have a significant impact on album sales. A positive review can boost an artist's career, while a negative one can hurt it.
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Rolling Stone has a strong social media presence. The magazine has millions of followers across platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
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The magazine has published books. Titles include "The Rolling Stone Illustrated History of Rock & Roll" and "Rolling Stone Cover to Cover."
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Rolling Stone has a podcast network. It features shows on music, politics, and culture, expanding the magazine's reach.
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The magazine has a global presence. There are international editions of Rolling Stone in countries like Germany, Japan, and Brazil.
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Rolling Stone's "Hot List" highlights the best in music, movies, TV, and more. It's a go-to guide for what's trending.
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The magazine has a strong connection to Woodstock. Rolling Stone extensively covered the iconic 1969 music festival.
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Rolling Stone has a YouTube channel. It features interviews, live performances, and behind-the-scenes content.
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The magazine's "Rock and Roll Hall of Fame" issue is highly anticipated. It celebrates the newest inductees and their contributions to music.
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Rolling Stone has a dedicated team of photographers. Their work has captured some of the most memorable moments in music history.
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The magazine's "Best of" lists are widely read. These include the best albums, songs, and artists of the year.
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Rolling Stone has a strong editorial voice. The magazine is known for its bold opinions and in-depth analysis.
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The magazine has a rich history of investigative journalism. Stories like "The Runaway General" have had a significant impact.
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Rolling Stone has a unique writing style. It's known for its long-form journalism and narrative storytelling.
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The magazine has a strong connection to the Grammys. Rolling Stone often predicts the winners and covers the event extensively.
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Rolling Stone has a mobile app. It offers access to the latest articles, reviews, and exclusive content.
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The magazine's "Readers' Poll" allows fans to vote on their favorite artists, albums, and songs.
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Rolling Stone has a strong connection to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Jann Wenner was one of the co-founders of the Hall of Fame.
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The magazine's "Women Who Rock" issue celebrates female artists and their contributions to music.
The Legacy of Rolling Stone
Rolling Stone isn't just a magazine; it's a cultural icon. From its groundbreaking interviews to its influential music reviews, it has shaped public opinion for decades. The magazine has been a platform for artists, activists, and writers, giving voice to counterculture movements and mainstream trends alike. Its iconic covers have featured everyone from John Lennon to Beyoncé, capturing the spirit of each era.
Rolling Stone's impact goes beyond music. It has tackled politics, social issues, and pop culture, making it a trusted source for readers seeking more than just entertainment. The magazine's commitment to quality journalism and storytelling has earned it a loyal following and critical acclaim.
As Rolling Stone continues to evolve, it remains a beacon of cultural relevance, proving that great journalism and compelling stories never go out of style.
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