Pour Some Out for VIBE

You all really won't believe this one, but 'tis true: VIBE magazine is closing. Operations are shuttig down. And more creatives will soon be on the streets job-hunting in this already tough industry.

According to Variety Headline News, the VIBE staff was in the midst of an MJ tribute issue when Editor in Chief Danyel Smith issued confirmatory memos. The funny thing is, a couple of weeks ago I read an e-mail announcing Smith CEO of the VIBE Media Group and EIC of VIBE, as well as a new hip-hop tabloid magazine. But now, she and former VIBE Media Group CEO Steve Aaron announce that a decrease in advertising revenue along with a lack of investors have led to the demise of the mag, which was nearing its 16th anniversary! (And 16 years is a huge milestone for a magazine!)

VIBE was founded in 1992 by one Quincy Jones, and we know his money is long. I feel like if he wanted to step in, he could. (Even when VIBE Vixen folded, there was an opportunity to infuse life in the parent mag.) With ESSENCE and BET, FUBU, Phat Farm and many other businesses, we start with an idea and then sell it off when it becomes successful. We imagine a conglomerate with more resources can run it better and make it even more profitable, but to me, what's wrong with having a vision, making your baby a success and continuing to see it through?

I don't like XXL or the Source, but VIBE was a respectable brand and a magazine for men and women, fans of rap, hip hop and R&B alike. Perhaps it will live on as an online magazine - who knows? Times like these force traditional media to get real creative. But I wish all those talented people the best.

WAIT A MINUTE-- U know what, yall? I should have suspected this. Whenever your top talent starts to jump ship, that means they're being smart and running out of the burning building before it collapses. Former VIBE writer and editor Shanel Odum moved over to head Honey Magazine, which is online only, and former VIBE Editor in Chief Emil Wilbekin went over to GIANT in February, then to Essence.com last month!!!! (And I was wondering why this man went over to be managing editor at Essence...now I know! He's been around long enuf to have peeped game before the axe fell!)

What should the last "10 Questions" include, yall????