October 20, 2025

Rolling Stone Merges With VIBE To Expand Its Hip-Hop And R&B Content

Dawton Thomas

VIBE has merged with Rolling Stone, according to Billboard. The merger will allow Rolling Stone to expand its hip-hop coverage and take a deeper dive into the genre. Additionally, VIBE will release exclusive collector’s edition issues of the magazine and debut a new interview series featuring in-depth conversations with leading figures across music, sports, and fashion.

“We are thrilled to announce that VIBE is joining forces with Rolling Stone,” Julian Holguin, CEO of Rolling Stone, said. “VIBE will continue to power cultural conversations and reestablish itself as a driving force for commentary and reporting. Our goal is to continue the mission VIBE was founded on while leveraging Rolling Stone to amplify its presence across all platforms.”

VIBE merching with Rolling Stone

Datwon Thomas, VIBE’s editor-in-chief, will take on a new role as strategic advisor. “Coming back to VIBE in this role is deeply meaningful to me. The opportunity to help guide VIBE into the next phase of its growth and continued legacy is an honor,” Thomas said. The two outlets will also hire a new head of the VIBE brand, an events producer, and a video/podcast host.

However, the merger has resulted in some journalists losing their jobs. “Due to VIBE/Rolling Stone merger my position was eliminated and I was laid off. Thankful for the past 4 years of writing+ reporting,” DeMicia Inman wrote on X.

About VIBE magazine

VIBE was founded in 1993 by musician and producer Quincy Jones. It shut its print version in 2014 but maintained its online publication, writing stories about hip-hop, fashion, and lifestyle.

The magazine helped launch the careers of several artists, including Snoop, Usher, Mary J. Blige, and Lauryn Hill. It also reported on significant events such as the rise and deaths of Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G. It also gave Barack Obama his first cover in 2017.


Image: PMC

Habiba Katsha

Habiba Katsha is a journalist and writer who specializes in writing about race, gender, and the internet. She is currently a tech reporter at POCIT.