What is NME, and what forms does it encompass?

NME, or New Musical Express, is a British brand that operates as a website focused on music, film, gaming, and culture. It also exists as a bimonthly magazine and is associated with the NME Awards and NME Tours. Originally founded as a newspaper, it has evolved significantly over its history.

When was NME established, and what was its initial format and content focus?

NME was established in 1952. Initially, it was published as a newspaper in a tabloid format on newsprint. Under editor Ray Sonin, it began featuring artist interviews and industry gossip, and notably introduced the first UK Singles Chart.

What significant milestone did NME achieve in its first year of publication regarding music charts?

In its first year, NME achieved a significant milestone by creating the first UK Singles Chart. This chart, which initially listed the Top Twelve best-selling singles, was sourced from sales data in regional stores across the UK and led to a 50% increase in the magazine's sales.

What was the first number-one single featured on NME's inaugural UK Singles Chart?

The first number-one single on NME's inaugural UK Singles Chart was "Here in My Heart" by Al Martino.

How did NME's circulation fare during the 1960s, and what major artists did it feature?

During the 1960s, NME championed emerging British groups, and its circulation peaked in early 1964 at 306,881 copies per week. Major artists like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones were frequently featured on its front covers.

What were the NME Poll Winners' Concerts, and when did they take place?

The NME Poll Winners' Concerts were award events where artists voted most popular by the paper's readers would collect their awards. These concerts took place annually between 1959 and 1972, and from 1964 onwards, they were filmed and broadcast on British television.

How did NME's coverage in the mid-1960s compare to its rival, Melody Maker?

In the mid-1960s, NME was primarily dedicated to pop music coverage, while its competitor, Melody Maker, was known for its more serious and in-depth exploration of music.

What challenges did NME face in the early 1970s, and how was it revitalized?

In the early 1970s, NME lost ground to Melody Maker and was on the verge of closure by its owner, IPC. It was revitalized under editor Alan Smith, who recruited writers from the underground press and other sources, leading to a significant increase in sales and a renewed focus on contemporary music trends.

Which music genres did NME champion in the mid-to-late 1970s, and which writers were key to this coverage?

NME championed glam rock and later punk rock in the mid-to-late 1970s. Key writers like Julie Burchill, Paul Morley, and Tony Parsons were instrumental in capturing the punk movement's essence and tone, with bands like the Sex Pistols and Generation X frequently appearing on its covers.

What was NME's circulation by the mid-1970s, and how did it compare to other music papers?

By the time Alan Smith handed over the editorship to Nick Logan in mid-1973, NME's circulation had reached nearly 300,000 copies per week. This figure allowed it to outsell competitors such as Melody Maker, Disc, and Record Mirror.

How did NME's political stance evolve during the late 1970s and 1980s?

NME became more overtly political in the late 1970s, taking an editorial stance against groups like the National Front. Following Margaret Thatcher's election in 1979, the paper adopted a broadly socialist stance throughout much of the 1980s.

What influential cassette compilations did NME release in the 1980s?

In the 1980s, NME released two influential cassette compilations: "C81" in 1981, featuring a mix of up-and-coming and established artists, and "C86" in 1986. The magazine released a total of 36 cassette compilations between 1981 and 1988.

What internal conflict did NME experience in the mid-1980s, and what was the impact on its direction?

In the mid-1980s, NME faced internal division between staff who wanted to cover hip hop, a genre new to the UK, and those who preferred to focus on rock music. This lack of clear direction led to declining sales and criticism from readers.

How did NME respond to the rise of grunge in the early 1990s?

NME was slow to embrace the grunge movement that emerged from Seattle in the early 1990s, with other publications like 'Sounds' and 'Melody Maker' being quicker to cover bands like Nirvana. NME's interest in grunge grew significantly after the commercial success of Nirvana's album 'Nevermind'.

What was the NME's role in the Britpop phenomenon of the 1990s?

NME played a significant role in the Britpop movement, coining the term itself. The magazine heavily covered bands like Blur and Oasis, contributing to their rise and the genre's popularity, and sponsored the Glastonbury Festival's second stage from 1993 to 1995.

What controversy involved NME and Morrissey in 1992?

In 1992, NME faced a public dispute with Morrissey following allegations by its writer Dele Fadele that Morrissey had used racist lyrics and imagery, particularly after he draped himself in a Union Jack at a concert. This incident soured Morrissey's relationship with the paper for over a decade.

How did NME's format change in the late 1990s?

In the late 1990s, NME transitioned away from newsprint in 1998 and later shifted to a tabloid size with glossy color covers, moving from its traditional newspaper format to a more magazine-like presentation.

What happened to Melody Maker in 2000 in relation to NME?

In 2000, Melody Maker officially merged with NME. This event fueled speculation about NME's own future, given the shrinking weekly music magazine market.

Which new bands did NME help introduce in the early 2000s?

In the early 2000s, NME reasserted its influence in new music by helping to introduce bands such as The Strokes, The Vines, and The White Stripes.

What was the outcome of NME's attempt to broaden its coverage to genres like hip-hop and R&B in the early 2000s?

In the early 2000s, NME attempted to broaden its coverage to include hip-hop acts like Jay-Z and Missy Elliott, and R&B groups, but these efforts proved unpopular with much of its readership and were subsequently dropped.

What criticism was leveled against NME regarding its 2008 award nominations?

In 2008, Caroline Sullivan of The Guardian criticized NME for a perceived lack of diversity in its "NME bands," suggesting the magazine's approved artists were confined to a narrow strand of "indie" music.

When did NME transition to being distributed as a free publication, and what was the initial impact on its circulation?

NME was relaunched as a free publication in September 2015. The first circulation figures released in February 2016 showed an average of 307,217 copies per week, which was the highest in the brand's history.

What led to the cessation of NME's print edition in 2018?

In March 2018, the publisher announced that the print edition of NME would cease publication after 66 years, transitioning to an online-only format due to falling newsstand sales across the UK magazine sector.

Who acquired NME in 2019, and what is the current ownership structure?

NME was acquired in 2019 by the Singaporean music company BandLab Technologies. In December 2021, BandLab Technologies restructured, placing NME and other music publications under the NME Networks brand.

When was the print edition of NME revived, and in what format?

The print edition of NME was revived in July 2023, returning as a bimonthly release, with each issue intended to showcase a rising musical talent.

What was the significance of NME.com's launch in 1996?

The launch of NME.com in 1996 marked a significant step for the brand, quickly becoming Britain's most popular commercial music website on the web.

What notable online first did NME.com achieve in November 1999?

In November 1999, NME.com hosted the UK's first webcast, featuring a performance by the band Suede titled 'Live in Japan'.

What awards did NME.com receive in the early 2000s for its online presence?

NME.com was recognized for its online achievements, winning Online Magazine of the Year in 1999 and 2001. Its editor, Anthony Thornton, also received Website Editor of the Year awards in 2001 and 2002.

How did NME.com's focus evolve under editor Ben Perreau starting in 2005?

Under editor Ben Perreau, NME.com was relaunched and redeveloped in September 2005 with a focus that migrated towards video, audio content, and the broader music community, earning it the Best Music Website award in October 2005.

What expansion did NME.com undertake in 2010?

In 2010, NME.com expanded its content coverage beyond music to include movies and television, broadening its scope as a cultural media platform.

What initiatives did NME.com launch under editor Luke Lewis in 2011?

Under Luke Lewis, NME.com launched NMEVideo.com, a dedicated video site, and the NME Festivals smartphone app. It also organized a Twitter listening party for Nirvana's 'Nevermind' and began a documentary film series called 'The Ultimate Guide'.

What was the NME's role in coining the term 'Britpop'?

The term 'Britpop' is attributed to NME, which played a key role in defining and promoting the genre that emerged in the UK in the mid-1990s.

What is the purpose of the NME Awards?

The NME Awards are an annual event held to celebrate the best new music of the past year, with the nominations and winners determined by the magazine's readers.

What is the NME Tours initiative?

NME Tours is an annual event sponsored by NME that features a tour of the United Kingdom by up-and-coming bands.

What was the 'NME Originals' series?

The 'NME Originals' was a series of themed magazines launched in 2002 that reprinted vintage articles, interviews, and reviews from NME's archives, often focusing on specific artists or genres.

When did NME Radio first launch, and what is its current status?

NME Radio first launched in 2008. After a period of closure, it was relaunched in 2018, but since 2023, it no longer carries the NME brand and is known as TMM (The Music Machine).

What is NME Networks, and what brands does it encompass?

NME Networks is a division of Caldecott Music Group, formed in 2021, which manages NME's print and online publications, including NME.com, NME Asia, and NME Australia. It also includes Guitar.com and MusicTech, and formerly included Uncut magazine.

Who were some of the key editors of NME throughout its history?

Key editors of NME have included Ray Sonin (1952), Alan Smith (1971), Nick Logan (1973), Neil Spencer (1978), Steve Sutherland (1992), Conor McNicholas (2002), and Mike Williams (2012).

What was the circulation of NME in the first half of 2014?

In the first half of 2014, the paid circulation of NME magazine was 15,830 copies.

What was the stated reason for NME's print magazine revival in 2023?

Holly Bishop, NME Networks' chief operating and commercial officer, stated that the company was inspired by the resurgence of vinyl and cassette tapes as a reason to bring back a physical edition of the NME magazine for music fans.

When did NME Australia launch, and what was its initial format?

NME Australia was launched in December 2018 by BandLab Technologies. Initially, it was a website-only publication, with interviews presented as numbered issues, starting with Amyl & The Sniffers on the inaugural cover.

What was the impact of NME's shift to a free publication in 2015 on its editorial content?

Following its relaunch as a free publication in 2015, NME featured a number of high-profile international pop stars on its cover, such as Rihanna, Coldplay, and Taylor Swift, alongside emerging talent, indicating a broader, more pop-oriented focus.

What did The Guardian report in March 2018 regarding NME's print edition?

In March 2018, The Guardian reported that NME was set to cease publication of its weekly print magazine after 66 years, with the intention of continuing as an online-only publication.

What was NME's circulation in December 2017, according to the Audit Bureau of Circulations?

According to the Audit Bureau of Circulations, NME's average distribution had fallen to 289,432 copies per week by December 2017.

What was NME's role in covering the Madchester scene and the subsequent rise of grunge?

NME was involved in covering the Madchester scene in the early 1990s. As that scene declined, NME began reporting on American grunge bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam, though it was initially slow to embrace the genre compared to some competitors.

What is the significance of the NME.com website in the context of music news?

NME.com is recognized as Britain's most popular commercial music website and has been a pioneering platform for music news, webcasts, and digital content, earning numerous awards for its editorial and design work.

How did NME's editorial content change under editor Alan Lewis in the late 1980s?

Under editor Alan Lewis in the late 1980s, NME prioritized readership over strict editorial independence, leading to a more commercially driven approach and the inclusion of new writers who helped give the paper a stronger identity, though some critics felt it became less intellectual.

What was the "hip-hop wars" mentioned in relation to NME in the 1980s?

The "hip-hop wars" refers to the internal conflict within NME during the mid-1980s where staff were divided between covering hip hop and sticking to rock music, a debate that impacted the magazine's direction and readership.

What was NME's stance on political issues during the punk era and the Thatcher years?

During the punk era, NME sometimes featured youth-oriented political issues on its cover and took a stance against political parties like the National Front. After Margaret Thatcher's election in 1979, the paper generally adopted a socialist stance for much of the following decade.

What is the NME's relationship with the Glastonbury Festival?

NME sponsored the second stage at the Glastonbury Festival from 1993 to 1995. This stage was subsequently known as the 'Other Stage'.

What was the impact of the 'NME's The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time' list in 2013?

The list generated criticism from media outlets like The Guardian and Consequence of Sound, with The Guardian noting that Features Editor Laura Snapes included four albums from the same band, The National, in her top five.

Nme Wiki: NME: The Pulse of Pop Culture

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About NME

Defining the Beat

The New Musical Express (NME) is a prominent British publication that encompasses music, film, gaming, and broader cultural commentary. Initially established as a newspaper in 1952, it has evolved significantly, transitioning through various formats including a magazine, a free publication, and a robust webzine. The brand has also extended to encompass the prestigious NME Awards, the NME Tours, and formerly, NME Radio.

From Ink to Digital

Originating as a "rock inkie," the NME was groundbreaking, being the first British newspaper to feature a singles chart, commencing this practice in November 1952. By the 1970s, it had ascended to become the best-selling music newspaper in the United Kingdom. The publication's digital presence, NME.com, launched in 1996, rapidly becoming Britain's most popular commercial music website. Despite a shift to a free, national distribution model in 2015 and a subsequent cessation of its weekly print edition in March 2018, the print magazine was revived in July 2023 as a bimonthly release, demonstrating its enduring relevance.

Historical Trajectory

Foundational Years

The NME's origins trace back to 1952 when music promoter Maurice Kinn acquired the Accordion Times and Musical Express. Rebranded as the New Musical Express, it adopted a tabloid format on newsprint. Under editor Ray Sonin, the paper introduced artist interviews and industry news. Crucially, it established the UK's first singles chart, drawing inspiration from Billboard magazine. This innovation significantly boosted sales, with the first number-one single being Al Martino's "Here in My Heart."

The Swinging Sixties

During the 1960s, the NME became a key champion of emerging British music acts. Circulation peaked in the mid-1960s, coinciding with the height of The Beatles' fame. The paper frequently featured major artists like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones on its cover and hosted the NME Poll Winners' Concerts, an annual event where artists received awards based on reader votes. These concerts, filmed and broadcast, underscored the NME's central role in the music scene.

Punk and Beyond

By the early 1970s, the NME faced challenges from rivals like Melody Maker. A strategic shift in 1972, under editor Alan Smith and assistant editor Nick Logan, involved recruiting writers from the underground press and adopting a more adventurous editorial stance. This revitalisation saw the paper championing glam rock and later, punk rock, becoming a critical voice during the punk era with writers like Julie Burchill and Tony Parsons. By 1977, it was instrumental in documenting a cultural revolution, with bands like the Sex Pistols and Generation X gracing its covers.

Cultural Evolution

The 80s and 90s

The 1980s marked a period of significant influence for the NME, establishing it as the preeminent music paper in the UK. It released influential cassette compilations like C81 and C86, featuring a diverse range of artists. The paper adopted a strongly socialist stance, aligning with movements like Red Wedge and critically engaging with the political landscape of the Thatcher era. The 1990s saw the NME navigate the Madchester scene, the rise of grunge, and the explosion of Britpop, famously covering the Blur vs. Oasis rivalry, which significantly boosted its readership.

Navigating Challenges

The late 1990s and early 2000s presented challenges, with declining sales and a perceived lack of direction. Attempts to broaden coverage beyond rock and indie music, including hip-hop and electronic genres, met with mixed reader reception. The paper underwent redesigns and editorial changes to adapt to market shifts. Despite these fluctuations, the NME continued to play a role in introducing new talent, such as The Strokes and Arctic Monkeys, and adapting its format, moving towards a glossy magazine style.

Digital Dominance and Revival

The transition to digital platforms became paramount. NME.com garnered numerous awards for its comprehensive music news coverage and innovative use of multimedia. In 2015, the print edition was relaunched as a free publication, leading to a significant increase in circulation and a broader, more pop-oriented focus. While the weekly print run ceased in 2018, the brand's commitment to its audience led to the revival of the print magazine in a bimonthly format in 2023, signalling a strategic return to physical media.

Media Ecosystem

NME.com and Digital Platforms

Launched in 1996, NME.com established itself as a leading online destination for music news, reviews, and features. It has been recognised with multiple awards for its editorial excellence and digital innovation, including Best Music Website and Website Editor of the Year. The platform has expanded its scope to include film, gaming, and broader cultural content, reflecting the evolving media landscape. NME Networks, under BandLab Technologies, now oversees NME.com, NME Asia, NME Australia, Guitar.com, and MusicTech.

Awards and Recognition

The NME Awards are a significant fixture in the music industry calendar, celebrating achievements in music and popular culture, with winners often determined by reader votes. The NME Tours have provided a platform for emerging artists to gain wider exposure. Furthermore, the NME Originals series and various special editions have leveraged the publication's extensive archives to offer retrospective insights into key moments and artists in music history.

Broadcast and Regional Presence

NME Radio, launched in 2008, represented an expansion into audio broadcasting, though it ceased operations after five years. The brand has also maintained a regional presence, notably with the launch of NME Australia in 2018, which initially operated as a website before introducing a print edition. This expansion highlights NME's strategy to engage diverse global audiences through tailored content and platforms.

Cultural Impact

Shaping Music Discourse

Throughout its history, the NME has been instrumental in shaping music discourse and influencing cultural trends. Its critical reviews, in-depth interviews, and trend-spotting have often defined genres and launched careers. From championing punk rock and Britpop to covering the nuances of electronic music and global pop phenomena, the NME has consistently served as a barometer for contemporary music culture, reflecting and often driving its evolution.

Voice of a Generation

The publication's editorial stance, particularly its engagement with political and social issues, has often resonated with younger audiences, positioning it as a voice for generational sentiment. Its willingness to challenge established norms and champion counter-cultural movements has cemented its reputation as more than just a music magazine, but a significant cultural commentator.

Ownership and Structure

Corporate Evolution

The NME has undergone several ownership changes, reflecting the dynamic nature of the media industry. Originally owned by IPC Media, it was later acquired by TI Media. In 2019, Singaporean company BandLab Technologies acquired the NME and other music publications. In December 2021, BandLab Technologies restructured, placing the NME brand under the newly formed NME Networks division, which also encompasses other music-related digital platforms.

NME Networks

NME Networks operates as the music publishing division of Caldecott Music Group. This division manages a portfolio of music and pop culture publications, including NME.com, NME Asia, NME Australia, Guitar.com, and MusicTech. This structure allows for cross-platform synergy and a unified approach to content creation and distribution across various media channels.

Key Features

Artist Features

The NME is renowned for its in-depth interviews and profiles of musicians, spanning established icons to emerging artists. These features often provide unique insights into the creative process, personal lives, and career trajectories of influential figures in music.

Reviews and Charts

From its inception, the NME has provided critical reviews of albums, singles, films, and cultural events. Its pioneering role in establishing the UK singles chart has continued through various iterations, offering readers a barometer of popular music trends and critical reception.

News and Commentary

Beyond music, the NME offers contemporary news and commentary on film, gaming, and broader cultural topics. Its editorial voice often engages with social and political issues, reflecting its historical role as a platform for youth culture and progressive viewpoints.

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References

"NME average circulation". Audit Bureau of Circulations Ltd, 15 February 2018.

"NME faced "ongoing losses"". Press Gazette, 8 March 2018.

A full list of references for this article are available at the NME Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This content has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon publicly available information from Wikipedia. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness, the information is presented for educational and informational purposes only. It may not reflect the most current developments or nuances of the subject matter.

This is not professional media or cultural advice. The information provided herein should not be considered a substitute for consulting official NME publications, engaging with primary sources, or seeking expert analysis in media studies, cultural history, or journalism. Always verify information with authoritative sources and consult qualified professionals for specific guidance.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.

NME: The Pulse of Pop Culture

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

About NME ℹ️

📰 Defining the Beat

🚀 From Ink to Digital

Historical Trajectory 🕰️

📜 Foundational Years

🌟 The Swinging Sixties

💥 Punk and Beyond

Cultural Evolution 🔄

📈 The 80s and 90s

📉 Navigating Challenges

🌐 Digital Dominance and Revival

Media Ecosystem 📺

💻 NME.com and Digital Platforms

🏆 Awards and Recognition

📻 Broadcast and Regional Presence

Cultural Impact 🌍

🎤 Shaping Music Discourse

🗣️ Voice of a Generation

Ownership and Structure 💼

🤝 Corporate Evolution

🏢 NME Networks

Key Features ✨

🎤 Artist Features

⭐ Reviews and Charts

📰 News and Commentary

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

About NME

Defining the Beat

From Ink to Digital

Historical Trajectory

Foundational Years

The Swinging Sixties

Punk and Beyond

Cultural Evolution

The 80s and 90s

Navigating Challenges

Digital Dominance and Revival

Media Ecosystem

NME.com and Digital Platforms

Awards and Recognition

Broadcast and Regional Presence

Cultural Impact

Shaping Music Discourse

Voice of a Generation

Ownership and Structure

Corporate Evolution

NME Networks

Key Features

Artist Features

Reviews and Charts

News and Commentary

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice