magazine

 

target

 Paragraphs

Below 800

Media Industries and digital convergence

statement of intent - final

 

Statement of Intent – Music Magazine/Music video

For my coursework, I am producing a music magazine that embodies a bold, modern aesthetic while appealing to a diverse and engaged audience. And a music video, where I’ll be recreating Tumblr Girls by G-Eazy, adapting it to fit the aesthetic and themes of my fictional artist, Hadiya. My version of the video will focus on nostalgia, memory, and self-reflection, using a combination of media language, mise-en-scène, and editing techniques to create a visually engaging and emotionally resonant piece. Whereas the magazine will focus on hip-hop, R&B, and contemporary music culture, featuring Hadiya, a fictional artist who represents authenticity, style, and boundary-pushing creativity. My aim is to create a publication that reflects the evolving music industry while using media language effectively to engage my target audience.

Target Audience & Representation

My magazine and music video are aimed at young adults aged 16-30 who are passionate about music, fashion, and contemporary culture. This demographic is highly active on social media especially on Tik Tok and YouTube, engages with streaming platforms, and follows artists who are not only talented but also outspoken and authentic. They are drawn to music that reflects real experiences and challenges mainstream expectations. By featuring Hadiya, a Hijabi artist in the hip-hop and R&B industry. Her representation aligns with Stuart Hall’s Reception Theory, as audiences will interpret her image differently depending on their own cultural backgrounds. Some may see her as a progressive force in the industry, while others may challenge the idea of a hijabi artist in a genre traditionally associated with non-conservative values. Additionally, bell hooks’ theory of intersectionality is relevant, as Hadiya represents both gender and cultural diversity in a space where Muslim women are underrepresented. Hadiya’s presence in the magazine will help redefine perceptions of identity in music while appealing to an audience that values inclusivity. Through her feature interview and imagery, I want to highlight how she balances faith, fashion, and artistry, showing that representation in music goes beyond sound, it’s also about visibility and cultural impact.

Use of Media Language

To create a visually striking and professional magazine, I will use key elements of media language, including typography, colour schemes, layout, and imagery. The masthead will be bold and modern, using a sleek, sans-serif typeface to reinforce the magazine’s contemporary style. My chosen colour scheme black, white, and an accent colour (red or gold or pink) will create strong visual contrast, helping establish brand identity while ensuring consistency across the cover, tour dates poster, and interview spread page. Photography will play a central role in engaging my audience. The front cover will feature a hero shot of Hadiya, styled to reflect her confidence and artistic identity. I will use direct address in the cover image to create a personal connection with the audience, making the magazine feel more immersive. Barthes’ theory of semiotics applies here, as Hadiya’s clothing, pose, and expression will act as signs that communicate her identity as an artist that’s confident and stylish. The mise-en-scène, including lighting, costume, and background, will be carefully planned to reinforce Hadiya’s image as a bold and stylish artist. The cover lines will be concise and impactful, using engaging language to draw the audience in. In the feature spread page, I will use pull quotes and subheadings to break up the text and maintain reader interest, aligning with Blumer and Katz’s Uses and Gratifications Theory, as readers seek entertainment and personal identification with the artist. The layout will be structured yet dynamic, using negative space effectively to keep the pages clean and professional. And for my music video I will also use various elements of media language to enhance the mood and aesthetic of the video. Soft lighting and lens flares will give the flashbacks an ethereal, dreamy quality, while natural lighting in the present-day scenes will create a more grounded atmosphere. Some footage will have a grainy, film-like texture to replicate a vintage, reinforcing the theme of nostalgia. Quick cuts during the montage will create a sense of energy and movement, while longer, lingering shots in the present will reflect the feeling of loss and longing.

Concept & Narrative

The video will open with Hadiya sitting alone in her kitchen, scrolling through her phone and looking at pictures from summer. This moment sets the tone of reflection and longing, showing her reminiscing about past experiences. As the beat kicks in, the screen will transition into a montage of summer memories carefree days with friends, scenic views, long drives, and city lights. These moments will feel warm and cinematic, representing how memories are often idealised over time. As the video progresses, there will be a contrast between the past and present. Hadiya’s current reality, dimly lit and quiet, will be intercut with bright, lively summer scenes. This juxtaposition highlights the passage of time and the feeling of wanting to relive moments that have already passed. The video will have a dreamy, almost surreal feel, with some shots intentionally blurred or distorted to mimic how memories fade and blend together.

 

Mise-en-Scène

The mise-en-scène will be carefully planned to reflect the emotions in the video. In the opening scene, Hadiya’s bedroom will have a personal, intimate feel, decorated with fairy lights, Polaroid pictures, and small personal items that suggest memories of summer. This setting reinforces the idea that she is stuck in the present, looking back at moments that feel distant. In contrast, the summer flashbacks will be set in vibrant, open locations such as beaches, rooftop views. These settings symbolise freedom, youth, and the excitement of summer. The clothing choices will also reflect the shift in time Hadiya will wear casual, relaxed outfits in the flashbacks, whereas in the present-day scenes, she will be dressed in darker, more muted tones, visually representing her mood and emotional state.

Statement of Intent – Music Video

For my coursework, I am recreating the music video for Tumblr Girls by G-Eazy, adapting it to fit the aesthetic and themes of my fictional artist, Hadiya. My version of the video will focus on nostalgia, memory, and self-reflection, using a combination of media language, mise-en-scène, and editing techniques to create a visually engaging and emotionally resonant piece.

Concept & Narrative

The video will open with Hadiya sitting alone in her bedroom, scrolling through her phone and looking at pictures from summer. This moment sets the tone of reflection and longing, showing her reminiscing about past experiences. As the beat kicks in, the screen will transition into a montage of summer memories carefree days with friends, scenic views, long drives, and city lights. These moments will feel warm and cinematic, representing how memories are often idealised over time.

As the video progresses, there will be a contrast between the past and present. Hadiya’s current reality, dimly lit and quiet, will be intercut with bright, lively summer scenes. This juxtaposition highlights the passage of time and the feeling of wanting to relive moments that have already passed. The video will have a dreamy, almost surreal feel, with some shots intentionally blurred or distorted to mimic how memories fade and blend together.

Media Language

I will use various elements of media language to enhance the mood and aesthetic of the video. The colour grading will play a key role in distinguishing between the past and present summer scenes will have warm, golden tones, while present-day shots will be cooler and slightly desaturated to emphasise the contrast. Soft lighting and lens flares will give the flashbacks an ethereal, dreamy quality, while natural lighting in the present-day scenes will create a more grounded, intimate atmosphere.

The cinematography will include a mix of handheld shots to create a raw, authentic feel and slow-motion shots to enhance the emotional weight of certain moments. Some footage will have a grainy, film-like texture to replicate a vintage, Tumblr-inspired aesthetic, reinforcing the theme of nostalgia. Editing will also be crucial in maintaining the dreamlike quality of the video smooth transitions, crossfades, and overlays will be used to blend past and present, making the flashbacks feel fluid and immersive. Quick cuts during the montage will create a sense of energy and movement, while longer, lingering shots in the present will reflect the feeling of loss and longing.

Mise-en-Scène

The mise-en-scène will be carefully planned to reflect the emotions in the video. In the opening scene, Hadiya’s bedroom will have a personal, intimate feel, decorated with fairy lights, Polaroid pictures, and small personal items that suggest memories of summer. This setting reinforces the idea that she is stuck in the present, looking back at moments that feel distant.

In contrast, the summer flashbacks will be set in vibrant, open locations such as beaches, rooftop views, and neon-lit streets. These settings symbolise freedom, youth, and the excitement of summer. The clothing choices will also reflect the shift in time Hadiya will wear casual, relaxed outfits in the flashbacks, whereas in the present-day scenes, she will be dressed in darker, more muted tones, visually representing her mood and emotional state.

By combining strong visual storytelling with effective use of media language and mise-en-scène, my music video will capture the emotions of nostalgia and longing, offering a unique and creative interpretation of Tumblr Girls.

Her representation aligns with Stuart Hall’s Reception Theory, as audiences will interpret her image differently depending on their own cultural backgrounds. Some may see her as a progressive force in the industry, while others may challenge the idea of a hijabi artist in a genre traditionally associated with non-conservative values. Additionally, bell hooks’ theory of intersectionality is relevant, as Hadiya represents both gender and cultural diversity in a space where Muslim women are underrepresented.

Statement of Intent – Music Magazine

 Statement of Intent – Music Magazine

For my coursework, I am producing a music magazine that embodies a bold, modern aesthetic while appealing to a diverse and engaged audience. The magazine will focus on hip-hop, R&B, and contemporary music culture, featuring Hadiya, a fictional artist who represents authenticity, style, and boundary-pushing creativity. My aim is to create a publication that reflects the evolving music industry while using media language effectively to engage my target audience.

Target Audience & Representation

My magazine is aimed at young adults aged 16-30 who are passionate about music, fashion, and contemporary culture. This demographic is highly active on social media especially on Tik Tok and Youtube, engages with streaming platforms, and follows artists who are not only talented but also outspoken and authentic. They are drawn to music that reflects real experiences and challenges mainstream expectations. By featuring Hadiya, a hijabi artist in the hip-hop and R&B industry. I aim to challenge stereotypes and bring fresh representation to a genre that has historically lacked visibility for artists like her.

The music industry is becoming more diverse, and my magazine aligns with this cultural shift by celebrating artists who break boundaries. Hadiya’s presence in the magazine will help redefine perceptions of identity in music while appealing to an audience that values inclusivity. Through her feature interview and imagery, I want to highlight how she balances faith, fashion, and artistry, showing that representation in music goes beyond sound, it’s also about visibility and cultural impact.

Use of Media Language

To create a visually striking and professional magazine, I will use key elements of media language, including typography, color schemes, layout, and imagery. The masthead will be bold and modern, using a sleek, sans-serif  typeface to reinforce the magazine’s contemporary style. My chosen color scheme black, white, and an accent color (red or gold) will create strong visual contrast, helping establish brand identity while ensuring consistency across the cover, tour dates poster, and feature spread.

Photography will play a central role in engaging my audience. The front cover will feature a hero shot of Hadiya, styled to reflect her confidence and artistic identity. I will use direct address in the cover image to create a personal connection with the audience, making the magazine feel more immersive. The mise-en-scène, including lighting, costume, and background, will be carefully planned to reinforce Hadiya’s image as a bold and stylish artist.

The cover lines will be concise and impactful, using engaging language to draw the audience in. In the feature article, I will use pull quotes and subheadings to break up the text and maintain reader interest. The layout will be structured yet dynamic, using negative space effectively to keep the pages clean and professional. Social media integration will also be highlighted, encouraging audience interactivity and reinforcing the magazine’s relevance in today’s digital landscape.

By combining strong visual design with engaging content, my magazine will reflect the values and interests of its target audience. Through careful use of media language, I aim to create a publication that not only informs but also inspires, celebrating the diversity and evolution of contemporary music culture.

print brief research and planning

1) Find at least five music magazine front covers (either current or former magazines as many have stopped their print editions) aimed at a similar target audience to your project (mainstream music audience) and research music magazine key conventions. For each one, pick out one design idea, convention or image/text style that you could use in your own print work.

2) Find at least five double-page spread features from music magazines on Google images. How are they designed? How are text and images displayed? What design tricks can you borrow from your examples?

3) Find at least five magazine contents pages - ideally from music magazines - from Google images. How are they designed? How are images used alongside text? How are page numbers displayed?

 

4) Find at least five music artist tour posters from Google images. How are they designed? How are images used alongside text? Which UK venues would suit your artist or band?

5) Read at least three example music interview features from newspapers and magazines to learn the format, writing style and content for a music magazine interview. You may wish to use the following to help you:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WrN3Dx3EBVI

https://speakout.org.uk/local-music-artists-interview/
https://www.musicandliterature.org/features/2014/6/21/an-interview-with-maya-homburger

Planning and sketching

1) Plan the content and cover lines for your front cover:

1. Front Cover (Page 1)

front Cover Image Idea: 

A striking image of Hadiya with a confident, stylish pose. she’s wearing her signiture jumper possibly holding a mic, with a dark urban backdrop that aligns with her persona.

cover Lines:

• “Exclusive Interview: hadiya Talks New Music and Life Changes”

• “Hip-Hop’s Stylish Rebel Returns”

• “Top 10 Tracks You Need to Hear This Month”

• “Inside: New Releases, Tours, and More”

slogan: "sundaze".

2. Two-Page Interview (Pages 2-3)

page2 " The Road to Reinvention”- headline

Design 

• Using bold, modern fonts.

• Keeping  the color scheme edgy — black, white, and a bold accent color like red or yellow.

Layout Idea: Hadiya  on one page.

• Text on the second page with quotes pulled out in bold.

• Use dark tones with white or gold text for a sleek, modern look.

 page3 Title: “Hadiya Unfiltered: New Beginnings and Old Demons”

Introduction Paragraph:

Hadiya  sits down with us to discuss her evolution in the music industry, her latest album, and the ups and downs of fame. From her struggles with identity to her  future ambitions, she gives us an inside look at her personal and professional life.

Questions & Answers Example:

interviewer : Your latest album seems more personal. What inspired that shift?

Hadiya: Life has thrown a lot my way recently. This album was my way of processing it all — the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

interviewer: What message do you hope your fans take away from your music?

Hadiya : I want people to know it’s okay to be vulnerable. Life isn’t perfect, and neither are we. But that’s where the beauty lies.

2) Plan the images you will use for the front cover - use the elements of mise-en-scene (CLAMPS). One main image and two smaller images required to meet the minimum content in the brief.

Main Image (Hero Shot) Centered on the Cover

 A bold, confident shot of the artist (Hadiya) looking directly at the camera, reflecting her musical identity.

CLAMPS Breakdown:

Costume: A casual but stylish jumper with a hijab, representing her unique fashion and personality.

 Lighting: Well-lit with a soft glow, giving a polished and professional magazine feel.

 Actors: The artist (Hadiya) in a confident stance, hands in pockets or crossed for a strong presence.

Makeup: Natural and minimalistic, keeping the focus on her expression.

 Props: Possibly headphones or a microphone, reinforcing her identity as a musician.

Setting: An urban background (graffiti wall, studio, or city skyline) to reflect her modern music style.

 

Smaller Image 1 Performance Shot

Concept: A live performance image of Hadiya singing or performing in the studio.

 Costume: A different stylish outfit, still modest, with stage lighting.

Lighting: Dramatic lighting with shadows or colored lights for a concert feel.

 Props: Microphone or studio equipment.

Setting: Stage or recording studio, showing her in action as an artist.

Smaller Image 2 Behind-the-Scenes Shot

Concept: A natural, relaxed moment of Hadiya in a music-related setting, like writing lyrics or discussing music with a producer.

Costume: Casual outfit, possibly a hoodie or oversized jumper.

Lighting: Warm, natural lighting.

Props: Notebook, laptop, or recording gear.

 Setting: A music studio or creative workspace.

Front Cover Layout Idea:

Main Image: Centered, bold, dominant image of Hadiya.

Smaller Images: Positioned on the side or at the bottom to create a visually engaging layout.

 Typography & Colors: Modern, bold fonts with black, white, and gold/red accents for a professional look.

3. one-page tour poster advert (Page 4)

Title:

“Must-See Tours and New Releases”

Sections to Include:

• “Hadiya  On Tour” – Dates and locations of her upcoming shows.

• “Top 5 Hip-Hop Albums This Month” – List new mainstream releases.

4) Write the 400 word interview feature you will use for the inside page spread. This must be 100% original and written by you. It may help to use a Q&A approach to this interview. 

Exclusive Interview: Hadiya – Rising Star Breaking Barriers

Q: Your music has a unique blend of sounds. How would you describe your style?

Hadiya: I’d say it’s a mix of R&B, hip-hop, and a little bit of old-school soul. I love storytelling in music, and I try to make every song feel personal, like I’m having a conversation with the listener.

Q: Growing up, who were your biggest musical inspirations?

Hadiya: I grew up listening to Lauryn Hill, Alicia Keys, and Nas. I admired how they poured emotions into their music. I also love contemporary artists like Jorja Smith and Snoh Aalegra—artists who bring depth and soul to their sound.

Q: As a hijabi artist, do you feel pressure to break stereotypes in the industry?

Hadiya: Definitely, but I embrace that challenge. Representation matters. When I was younger, I didn’t see many artists who looked like me, so I want to show that you can be yourself and still make great music. I don’t have to fit a mold—I can create my own lane.

Q: Your latest single has been blowing up! What was the inspiration behind it?

Hadiya: “Reflections” is probably my most personal track. It’s about self-growth, learning from mistakes, and moving forward with confidence. I wrote it during a time when I was questioning everything, and it became a reminder to trust myself.

Q: If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be?

Hadiya: That’s tough! I’d love to work with Kendrick Lamar—his storytelling is next level. Also, Mahalia or H.E.R. because they bring such an effortless vibe to their music.

Q: What’s next for you? Any projects we should look out for?

Hadiya: I’m working on my debut album, and I can’t wait to share it. It’s a mix of everything I love—raw emotions, smooth beats, and a little bit of attitude. I’m also planning a tour, so fans can expect live performances soon!

Q: Any advice for young artists trying to make it?

Hadiya: Stay true to yourself. People connect with authenticity. Keep learning, keep pushing, and never let anyone tell you that you don’t belong. You do.

Q: Your journey hasn’t been easy. Have you faced any major obstacles in the industry?

Hadiya: Absolutely. As a female artist, and especially as a hijabi in the music world, I’ve had people doubt me before they even heard my music. There were moments when I felt like I had to prove myself twice as hard just to be taken seriously. But honestly, that only made me work harder. I let my music speak for itself.

Q: What keeps you motivated when things get tough?

Hadiya: My supporters, my faith, and my love for music. There’s something about creating that makes me feel alive. Even on the hardest days, I remind myself why I started. And when I hear from fans who say my music helped them through something—that’s the real reward.

Q: How do you balance staying true to yourself while evolving as an artist?

Hadiya: Growth is important, but I never want to lose sight of who I am. I take inspiration from life, from the people around me, but I always check in with myself. If a song doesn’t feel real to me, I won’t put it out. Music has to come from the heart.

Q: Final words for your fans?

Hadiya: Thank you for believing in me! This is just the beginning. Keep chasing your dreams, and never be afraid to be yourself.

And there you have it.Hadiya is proof that talent, passion, and staying true to yourself can take you anywhere. Keep an eye on this rising star—she’s just getting started, Thank you.

5) Plan and write the text for your tour dates page. This will need to include a range of features and interviews that are not related to your artist but that do fit your target audience and brief (mainstream music magazine). 

Contents Page – Tour Dates & Events

Artist: hadiya 

Tour Name: endless summer Tour 2025

Tour Dates & Locations:

• May 15 – London, UK  (O2 Arena)

• may 20 – Paris, France  (Accor Arena)

• May 25 – Berlin, Germany  (Mercedes-Benz Arena)

• June 2 – Rome, Italy  (PalaLottomatica)

• june 10 – Madrid, Spain  (WiZink Center)

• June 18 – New York City, USA  (Madison Square Garden)

• July 5 – Los Angeles, USA  (Crypto.com Arena)

• July 25 – Tokyo, Japan  (Tokyo Dome)

• August 12 – Sydney, Australia  (Qudos Bank Arena)

Tickets go on sale April 10, 2025!

6) Research and select the font or typography you will use for your magazine. This is a critical element of your print work - the brief requires a consistent house style running through all of your pages. 

1. Magazine Title (Masthead) – Bold & Iconic

Font Choice: Impact or Bebas Neue

•  These fonts are bold, clean, and highly recognizable, making them perfect for a strong, memorable magazine title.

• Example: VIBE MUSIC (all caps, slightly spaced out for a sleek effect).

2. Cover Lines & Headlines – Modern & Attention-Grabbing

Font Choice: Montserrat or Oswald

• These sans-serif fonts are modern, readable, and stylish, making them ideal for headlines and main cover text.

• Main headlines on the cover

• Section titles inside the magazine

3. Article Body Text – Clean & Professional

Font Choice: Lora or PT Serif

• These fonts offer a classic, professional look with easy readability for long-form text.

• Interview text

• Feature articles

4. Subheadings & Quotes – Stylish & Eye-Catching

Font Choice: Playfair Display or Raleway (Italic for quotes)

• They add a sleek, artistic touch, perfect for breaking up text and emphasizing k

• Pull quotes from interviews

• Section subheadings

5. Contents Page & Sidebars – Minimal & Clean

Font Choice: Poppins or Avenir

• These fonts are versatile and modern, ensuring the contents page remains structured and readable.

Color & Typography Style Guidelines:

• Main Colors: Black, white, and a bold accent color (red or gold).

• Text Formatting:

• Masthead in ALL CAPS

• Headlines in Bold

• Quotes in Italic

7) Produce an A4 sketch of your front cover design and scan it/upload a picture to your blog.

8) Produce A4 sketches of your inside page feature with clear layout of where headline, subheading, images and text will appear on the pages. Scan or upload a picture to your blog.

9) Produce an A4 sketch of your contents page design and scan it/upload a picture to your blog.

Photoshoot

1) Who do you need to photograph for your front cover and inside page images? Remember, you need seven original images across the whole print production. 

one main model to portray Hadiya across different settings. 

2) What camera shots do you need? Write a shot list or draw a storyboard for your photoshoots. Make sure you plan a variety of camera shots you will look to capture - medium shots, close-ups etc.

Front Cover Shots:

1. Hero Shot (Medium Close-Up) – Hadiya looking straight at the camera, confident pose, hands in pockets or crossed. Dark urban backdrop.

2. Side Profile Shot (Close-Up) – A stylized shot to use in an inset on the cover, showcasing her signature jumper and microphone.

Interview Feature Shots:

3. Portrait (Medium Shot) – A natural moment, possibly sitting, looking reflective.

4. Performance Shot (Wide Shot) – Hadiya singing on stage, dramatic lighting.

5. Behind-the-Scenes (Over-the-Shoulder Shot) – Hadiya in the studio, writing or talking to a producer.

Tour Poster Images:

6. Live Concert Moment (Dynamic Action Shot) – Candid, engaging with a crowd.

7. Casual Relaxed Shot (Medium Full Shot) – Hadiya in a chill setting, maybe outside in an urban space, tying into the summer theme.

3) Plan the mise-en-scene. What costume, props or make-up will you require for your photoshoots?

3) Mise-en-Scène Planning

Costume:

• Front Cover: Stylish jumper (signature look), hijab, minimal accessories for a modern aesthetic.

• Performance Shots: A more stage-appropriate outfit—perhaps a statement jacket or a different colored hijab to contrast.

• Behind-the-Scenes: Casual hoodie or oversized jumper for a relaxed feel.

Props:

• Microphone (cover + performance shots)

• Headphones (studio shots)

• Notebook/Laptop (songwriting moment)

Makeup:

• Minimal and natural, ensuring the focus remains on her expression.

Lighting:

• Front Cover: Soft yet strong lighting to highlight features.

• Performance Shots: Dramatic, stage-like lighting.

• Behind-the-Scenes: Warm, natural lighting to create a relaxed atmosphere.

4) Finally, note down the time and date for your photoshoots. This may be inside or outside school (or a combination of both). You will have Media lesson time for this after the mock exams.

Next week 10th feb