Denis McQuail is an academic and a writer in the field of communication theories. In 1983 he classified four main, common reasons for media use: Information, Personal Identity, Integration and Social interaction, and Entertainment.
Information
This means finding out current events and information. So for example, in music magazines, the reader is given information about current music events, for example tour dates, and the latest information on bands. This information also satisfys the curiousity and interests that the reader has. Additionally, this information educates the readers on a topic the they are initially interested in. The readers will have the opportunity to learn about things such as the history of certain music genres, information about the bands and general knowledge about music.
Personal Identity
In music magazines, readers often find reinforcement for their personal values. For example, when reading a music magazine orientated around a particular music genre, readers can often find other views similar to their own which are meaningful to them. Additionally, within music magazines, readers can also find role models which they aspire to. These role models can also influence the behavior and ways of life of a person. Finally, many readers of music magazines feel that they can relate to the band and artists featured in the issues, as a result from interviews and personal quotations. This can make the reader feel valued and also have a sense of belonging.
Integration and Social Interaction
Readers of media can gain insight into the circumstances of others. This can then lead to them identifying with them and learn about different situations and hardships that bands and artists in the music works can go through.
As i said before, music magazine readers can also identify with the people they read about and therefore achieve a sense of belonging. They may feel that they have been through similar experiences and matters as the bands or artists they read about.
Information in music magazines and other media, provides a basis for conversations and social interactions. This is because many people can enjoy one genre of music, and therefore use this as a basis for conversation. In music magazines, there is often a thead for conversation about a range of topics. For example, about a certain band, or a tour.
Entertainment
Many people like to listen to or read the media to escape their own personal problems. For example, to read a magazine to take them somewhere else. Therefore, a person who reads music magazines may read a magazine containing articles and stories about recent performances and upcoming tours, to take them somewhere else and to relax from everyday stresses.
It's really good that you are including theories in your blog, as this will enable you to fully understand what you want your magazine to achieve... Uses and Grats. is an interesting theory, and does seem to be especially applicable to the music magazines.
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