Music Magazine - Contents Analysis #2

 Contents Page Analysis #2

Initially, Q’s page layout follows all the conventions of a music magazine contents page. The main image is of a famous band, The Courteeners, located at the top of a hill as they pose in black and white clothing. Black and white usually represents formality and wealth, so it will make readers idolize the band members. The lead singer is also wearing sunglasses with shaggy hair, which is a common trait of a rock star; this creates a bigger music atmosphere on the page. The second image positioned at the base in the centre is of the artist Nick Cave in a formal suit, he is also clothed in black and white to portray formality and intelligence. This isn’t a common convention of a music magazine, as they’re usually represented crazily; jumping about or lying down. This makes the Q magazine appear more sophisticated and serious.

Furthermore, the entire page’s text is similar and in drop capitals, although the colors are different, abiding by the color scheme.  The layout consists of bold, red page numbers, black sub-headings and brief descriptions of the articles in lower case black text. The page numbers are in a different color from the sub-headings to make them more recognizable. Following after the “features” contents, is an “OASIS SPECIAL!” this, along with the page numbers are written in gold, unlike the rest of the contents page. This alerts the audience of the most significant matter they have to offer to influence them to purchase the magazine. Also, every sub-title is in block capitals, this is done to draw interest from audience and make it seem extra stimulating.

Additionally, the contents page is split into three dissimilar sections; “features,” “every month” and “Q reviews.” This achieves an organized and smart representation of the page; it also makes it clearer for the audience to find specific details.  However, the main image takes up most of the space, becoming the centre of attention. This isn’t specifically a negative aspect, though if Q was to recreate their contents page, I would recommend them having more images to appeal to a wider audience. However, if many “The Courteeners” fans saw that they were featured in this magazine, they would be more likely to purchase it.

Lastly, the color scheme of Q’s contents page is red and black. Red is the color of fire and blood, so it is associated with energy, power and strength. Black is a mysterious color related with fear and the unknown, it usually has a negative connotation because of words such as blacklist, black humor and Black Death. However, black also denotes strength and authority; it is considered to be a very formal, elegant, and prestigious color, for example a black Mercedes or black tie.  These colors are used because they’re identified as typical rock band colors; this encourages the correct, specific audience to buy the magazine, which in this case, everyone with an interest in rock music.