Essence (magazine)

Essence (magazine). A pioneering American monthly publication founded in 1970, it is the first major magazine aimed specifically at African-American women. Throughout its history, it has served as a vital platform addressing issues of Black culture, beauty, fashion, politics, and social justice. Owned by Essence Communications and later a subsidiary of Time Inc., it remains a cornerstone of Black media and a powerful voice for its readership.

History

The magazine was launched in May 1970 by a group of entrepreneurs including Edward Lewis, Clarence O. Smith, Jonathan Blount, and Cecil Hollingsworth, with initial financial backing from investors like the Park Avenue drugstore chain Eckerd Corporation. Its creation filled a significant void in the publishing industry, which had largely ignored the perspectives and needs of Black women. The first editor-in-chief was Marlene Sanders, though she was soon succeeded by Gordon Parks, who helped shape its early visual direction. A pivotal moment came in 1971 when Susan L. Taylor joined, eventually becoming its iconic editor-in-chief and a defining voice for decades. The magazine was acquired by Time Inc. in 2000, integrating it into a major media conglomerate. In 2018, Essence Communications was re-established as a fully Black-owned entity after being purchased from Time Inc. by its founder, Edward Lewis, and Michele Ebanks.

Content and features

Each issue traditionally covers a wide range of topics central to the lives of its readers, including in-depth features on health, career advancement, personal finance, and relationships. The magazine is renowned for its annual "Essence Festival", a cultural celebration launched in 1995 in New Orleans that features musical performances, empowerment seminars, and beauty expos. Its fashion spreads have highlighted the work of designers like Tracy Reese and Dapper Dan, while beauty coverage has championed the diversity of Black skin tones and haircare, influencing the cosmetics industry. Regular columns and features have addressed critical social issues, from voting rights and police brutality to HIV/AIDS awareness and mental health in the Black community.

Cultural impact

The publication has had an immeasurable impact on American culture, consistently elevating the visibility and narratives of Black women. It played a crucial role in defining Black beauty standards, famously featuring models like Naomi Campbell and Iman on its covers and advocating for greater representation in advertising and Hollywood. Its journalism has provided essential political commentary, interviewing figures from Barack Obama to Angela Davis and covering movements like Black Lives Matter. The "Essence Festival" has grown into one of the nation's largest cultural events, attracting hundreds of thousands and featuring artists from Beyoncé to Prince. It has also served as a launchpad for writers and thinkers, including Maya Angelou, who was a frequent contributor.

Business and circulation

Initially struggling, the magazine achieved profitability within a few years and grew its circulation significantly. At its peak in the early 2000s, its paid circulation reached over 1 million, making it one of the most widely read Black magazines in the United States. Its ownership under Time Inc., later part of Meredith Corporation, provided corporate scale, though the 2018 buyback to full Black ownership was a landmark event in media independence. Revenue streams have historically included advertising from major corporations like Procter & Gamble and L'Oréal, as well as the massively successful "Essence Festival", which generates substantial income through tickets, sponsorships, and tourism.

Editors and leadership

Leadership has been instrumental to its identity and success. Following Gordon Parks, Susan L. Taylor served as editor-in-chief from 1981 to 2000, becoming the magazine's heart and soul with her monthly column "In the Spirit". Subsequent editors-in-chief have included Diane Weathers, Monique Greenwood, Angela Burt-Murray, and Constance C.R. White. Vanessa K. De Luca led the editorial team from 2014 to 2018. The current editorial direction is overseen by Michele Ebanks as president of Essence Communications, with MoAna Luu serving as chief content and creative officer. The board has included influential figures like Sheila C. Johnson and Richelieu Dennis, founder of Sundial Brands. Category:American monthly magazines Category:Magazines established in 1970 Category:African-American magazines