Black Magazines That Have Weathered The Storm

The Source

Before hip-hop went ultra mainstream, there was The Source. When it first appeared on the scene in 1988, it was a must-have for hip-hop fans who had few outlets to learn about, and be exposed to, the news and happenings of urban music. Just think, at the time, hip hop was limited to just one hour on MTV (Yo! MTV Raps anyone?). The glossy was founded by Dave Mays and his Harvard college buddies. It rose to prominence quickly, considering that it was both filling a void and creating the market.

The Source’s history is not without controversy thanks to its former editor-in-chief and co-owner Benzino. The magazine became the source of hip-hop drama when Benzino started a fued with Eminem in 2002. Later, word of sexual harassment of the female staff came to light. Despite all his troubles, Benzino eventually moved on to found Hip Hop Weekly with Dave Mays.  The Source is still one of the most recognizable rap brands in the world today.