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Writer's pictureJonathan Dean

Is it really finally over for the legendary KEYBOARD magazine?

Updated: Apr 18

A few years back, well 2017 to be exact, rumours started to circulate that Keyboard Magazine had reached the end of the road. There were articles published by the the various portals of the time stating that the editorial would move to Electronic Musician but the majority of staff were effectively unemployed.

Keyboard Magazine Front Cover
Keyboard Magazine Front Cover

At this point Keyboard magazine had been running since 1975 and for those that don't want to do the maths that was nearly 42 years.


I started reading the hallowed pages of Keyboard magazine following the acquisition of my first keyboard (Yamaha DSR2000) when I was 18. And although I couldn't afford most of the tech described in those pages, it didn't stop me lusting over the equipment for purchase at some point in the future when I had made my fortune.


It got to the point that when I moved in with my ex-partner I had years worth of these magazines in boxes that moved with me. Sadly at some point, and I might add without my knowledge, those boxes that were stored in the loft, mysteriously disappeared!


However the reported rumours were not fully correct, yes Keyboard magazine was ceasing but in its printed format. It was going to become a online monthly publication instead. I guess this allowed the publisher to shed a massive cost overhead (as in the paper, printing and distribution) but still deliver content to a price point and theoretically at a better margin.


I signed up and have been consuming this content in this form ever since. Great for reading on one of my many flights consumed during the year.

Keyboard Notice Letter
Keyboard Notice Letter

But it seems the publisher has now called time on the online magazine as well or have they? This letter was published to the iPad application which is how you access the magazine.


You will notice that the wording of the announcement is very specific! 'the final issue available subscription'. What does the mean?


Does it mean that Keyboard Magazine has ceased or does it meant that Keyboard Magazine will continue using another publishing medium? What I think this means is that from now on, if you want to read an issue you have to buy it!



About the Author

Jon describes himself as a frustrated musician with a passion for the electronic instruments that help him and other musicians be creative. He started playing keyboards in his late teens and re-ignited his passion and built a new studio following his seperation.


About the Blog

The Blog, Website and YouTube channel were started to share Jon's experiences and views on the industry at large and how these effect the small musician. Plus technical tips how to configure and maintain the equipment he owns.


He is open to collaborations with manufacturers to undertake independent equipment reviews. Representative please contact him through the contact section of this site.


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