NME magazine to shut down after 66 YEARS – with final edition on Friday
Publishers announced the music magazine wouldn't be making any more editions at is 'no longer viable'
MUSIC magazine NME is printing its final edition on Friday after 66 years.
Publishers Time Inc announced the infamous music bible wouldn't be making any more editions as it is "no longer financially viable".
Managing director Paul Cheal said: "NME is one of the most iconic brands in British media and our move to free print has helped to propel the brand to its biggest ever audience on NME.com.
"The print re-invention has helped us to attract a range of cover stars that the previous paid-for magazine could only have dreamed of.
"At the same time, we have also faced increasing production costs and a very tough print advertising market. Unfortunately we have now reached a point where the free weekly magazine is no longer financially viable.
"It is in the digital space where effort and investment will focus to secure a strong future for this famous brand."
NME will continue to publish special issues in print - such as new paid-for series NME Gold.
The magazine launched in March 1972 and was the first British paper to include a singles chart.
A number of famous music stars have graced the cover - including Elvis Presley, The Rolling Stones, Dusty Springfield, Jimi Hendrix and David Bowie.
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