Radio One, owner of urban publication Giant Magazine, has announced that the print edition will cease publication after the upcoming issue is released to newsstands.
Sources told AllHipHop.com that factors in the magazine’s demise included the economic downturn, as well as media dollars being shifted away from print magazines to Internet properties.
The Giant brand will continue to operate under Radio One’s subsidiary company, Interactive One.
Interactive One was launched in 2008 to compliment Radio One’s portfolio of digital properties, which include BlackPlanet.com, NewsOne.com and Hellobeautful.com.
Giantlife.com will launch with an exclusive video series featuring Alicia Keys.
“Suspending the print vehicle marks the end of an era, but I am thrilled with the opportunity to bring more Celebrity, Style and Culture to our audiences through my exclusive video series, and other integrated rich media opportunities,” said Interactive One’s Chief Content Officer, Smokey Fontaine. “In the coming months consumers can look forward to more exclusive content from trend-setter and celebrity bloggers and active user participation and dialogue through TheGIANTList.”
Giant was a bi-monthly publication that was acquired by Radio One in 2007. The magazine published a total of 33 issues.
Alicia Keys is featured on Giant Magazine’s final cover of the print edition, which lands on newsstands December 15th.