NME set to become free magazine

After years of speculation and dwindling readership, NME has now announced its plans to become a free magazine later this year.

In a post written by editor Mike Williams on NME.com, he says, "The cat is out of the bag, and I couldn’t be more excited. For the past few months we’ve been working in secret here at NME on the next phase of our evolution. The goal, throughout all of our research and development, has been to find new and inventive ways to connect with you, our audience, better than ever. In the 63 years since NME launched we have evolved and transformed plenty of times. The evolution of 2015 is our boldest ever move, and I’m delighted to be able to share the news with you at last."

Although sticking to music, the article does go on to state their plans to branch out into other areas like "film, fashion, television, politics, gaming and technology", as well as non-editorial ventures such as "live events, more video franchises and greater engagement with users on new social platforms".

NME has been in trouble over the last decade with constantly falling reader numbers as well as hits on their website. Hopefully this new direction will invigorate the magazine's standing and influence within the music industry.

You can see the full announcement on NME.com here.

More News

Action Bronson unveils new track 'Easy Rider'

The New York rapper may be becoming just as famous for his love of food thanks to his online culinary opinion show 'Fuck That's Delicious', but now... 10 years 8 months ago

Arcade Fire cover 'Beverley Hills Cop' theme

This isn't the first time Arcade Fire have performed surprise covers on their recent 'Reflektor' tour. Prince, The Smiths and many more have all made... 10 years 8 months ago

'Lazaretto' becomes biggest selling vinyl in 20 years

It certainly seems like vinyl has firmly made a comeback after it has now been announced that Jack White's second solo album 'Lazaretto' is now the... 10 years 8 months ago

Jessie Ware announces 'Tough Love' release date

News of the upcoming Jessie Ware album has been arriving in small doses over the last month but finally a date has been set for the new release.... 10 years 8 months ago

Fucked Up share two unreleased tracks 'The Way We Did' and 'Blink'

Canadian punk rockers Fucked Up may have only just released their latest album 'Glass Boys', but now the band have unveiled two unheard tracks that... 10 years 8 months ago

Lorde to curate next 'Hunger Games' soundtrack

After teenage pop sensation Lorde featured on the soundtrack to the previous film 'Hunger Games: Catching Fire', it has been announced that the... 10 years 8 months ago

Peace unveil new single 'Lost On Me'

Birmingham-based foursome Peace have unveiled another track to be taken from their forthcoming new album. The track 'Lost On Me' follows the... 10 years 8 months ago

Gerard Way announces new solo album 'Hesitant Alien'

Former My Chemical Romance frontman Gerard Way has unveiled the details surrounding his much-anticipated debut solo album. The new record '... 10 years 8 months ago

Simian Mobile Disco share new track 'Dervish'

As techno partners Simian Mobile Disco prep for the release of their next studio album, the pair have now unveiled their latest effort 'Dervish'.... 10 years 8 months ago