Front Page Music Magazine Analysis

This front cover is from Q magazine, it stars Madonna as its lead article with contributing popular artist's such as Kaiser Chiefs and Girls Aloud, and comedians such as Mighty Boosh, Russell Brand and Little Britain. The theme of the issue seems to be 'Woman in Music' as the lower end of the cover says, it advertises a free mini-issue special about female musicians offering names such as Adele, Duffy, Debbie Harry, Kate Bush; all predominant Female artists old and new.

All the woman linked to this issue elude power and success, the main image of Madonna reflects this also; she is holding her hand up powerfully in protecting her face, this suggests aggression and defence. Her face is mostly visible below her hood but it appears that she is looking over her shoulder, her expression shows no fear just slight interest, this could relate to her return to music; she is coming back out from under her disguise and this time she isn't going to back away easy. This is supported further with her outfit clearly inspired by boxers in the ring, her hood has the instantly recognisable silver lining, her gloves are tough and protecting and she is wearing a dark cape-like top.

All the cover lines and the left third are made to fit around Madonna's face, none interfere as she is shown as dominant, and her status as a pop legend is reassured.

The colour scheme is red and black, the red is used for the logo and lead article title, and the black is used for the background and Madonna's outfit. Most of the left third and cover lines are in white to contrast the black background and to stand out more.

Text formatting is used in the lead article tag line, "All Interview", and in the pull quote, "Stupid Question! Next!" This is used differently in each case, the first is used for surprise and exaggeration, the second is used to show authority and demand.

Overall I think this cover focus' too much on the lead article and doesn't offer much more than the Madonna interview, readers who aren't fans of hers could be put off by the mass content on her. However it could also bring in new female readers as this issue takes focus on female interests, something unusual for Q magazine.

Centre Number 18125