Rolling Stone Africa is the African edition of the United States' Rolling Stone magazine devoted to music, politics, and popular culture, published monthly.[2] The African version of Rolling Stone was published under the license of Penske Media Corporation.[3][4]
History
The African version of Rolling Stone launched in July 2024. It is currently based in Lagos, Nigeria.[5]Gus Wenner, the chief executive officer of Rolling Stone announced the launch initially to 'expand its presence in Africa'. In partnership with Mwankom Group, Rolling Stone Africa is headed by D.R Bellegarde-Smerald.[6] In August 2024, Fela Kuti was featured on the first Rolling Stone Africa cover.[7][8] Rolling Stone Africa was published monthly, devoted to music, politics, and popular culture, with a few local articles supplementing the major features from the parent magazine with editors from various countries in Africa like Nigeria, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Ghana etc.[9][10] Including branches from the Middle East North Africa (MENA).[4] In 2011, a South African edition was active but was shut down later on.[11][12] The current board of editors include Toyosi Etim-Effiong, Usher Nyambi, Ify Obi, Caroline Akinyele among others.[13][14]
Covers
The first cover for the magazine was crafted by Rolling Stone Africa's contributor, Lemi Ghariokwu featuring musician and activist, Fela Kuti as an introduction to the launch of the magazine in Africa, followed by covers of Laolu Senbanjo and Kehinde Lijadu.[15]
In January 2025, Portuguese professional footballer and left winger, Rafael Leão was featured as the cover of Rolling Stone Africa.[16]
The first three issues featured, in order of appearance:
