Rolling Stone the Complete Covers Book

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Rolling Stone: The Complete Covers hardcover coffee table book featuring a portrait of Bob Dylan on the cover.
It compiles … Read more Rolling Stone: The Complete Covers hardcover coffee table book featuring a portrait of Bob Dylan on the cover.
It compiles iconic magazine covers from the publication's history.
The cover photograph of Bob Dylan was taken by Annie Leibovitz.
A great collection of early Annie Leibovitz's art.

Rolling Stone magazine was founded in San Francisco, California on November 9, 1967, by a 21-year-old student named Jann Wenner and veteran music critic Ralph J. Gleason.The publication rapidly evolved from an underground counterculture rag into the definitive chronicler of American music, politics, and popular culture.

The Early Years (1967–1970s)
The Counterculture Voice: Launching during the height of the hippie movement, the first issue featured a promotional still of John Lennon from his film How I Won the War on the cover. Gonzo Journalism: The magazine became famous for pioneering immersive, "gonzo" reporting, serving as the home for iconic writer Hunter S. Thompson and his landmark pieces like Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.

Visual Impact: Lead photographer Annie Leibovitz shaped the magazine's look, capturing generation-defining, intimate portraits of rock stars, actors, and politicians.

Relocation and Commercial Era (1977–1990s)
Moving to New York: In 1977, the magazine shifted its headquarters from San Francisco to New York City to position itself closer to the center of the corporate music, publishing, and advertising industries.

Mainstream Shift: During the 1980s and 1990s, the magazine expanded its reach to focus on a broader, youth-oriented entertainment market—covering television stars, movies, and blockbuster pop trends alongside its traditional rock roots.

Digital Transition and Modern History (2000s–Present)
Investigative Reporting: Despite a heavier focus on pop stars, the magazine maintained strong political coverage, notably featuring hard-hitting political commentary from journalists like Matt Taibbi and high-profile investigative reports.

Change of Ownership: In 2017, after 50 years under Wenner's guidance, a controlling stake was sold to Penske Media Corporation (PMC), which fully acquired the publication by 2019 to guide its digital-first future. See less