2. Uses and Gratifications Theory
The uses and gratifications theory is a theory that looks into why people use certain
media outlets. The theory discusses how media users actively search for a media that will
best meet their needs and also enhance knowledge, social interactions and diversion.
The theory entails that media uses have other options yet seek for the best; that caters
for their specific needs. Blumler and Katz believe that media users mix uses with goals
according to specific context, needs, social backgrounds etc.
The uses and gratifications of this magazine contents page are reviews on albums
informing readers on what they think of the albums, helping readers cast a vote on
whether they would enjoy the album. There are reviews on bands live, again helping
readers cast their own vote on other peoples points of view; helping them decide
whether they would like to see them live. Both of these reviews are giving readers views
on bands, helping them to cast their own views. This magazine not only meets the need
of including information on gigs and albums but it also enhances the knowledge of the
reader about other peoples views on bands.
The magazine gives the opportunity for social interactions by âGigsâ and âUpcoming
Eventsâ informing their target audience on bangs they are interested in and giving them
dates on when their favourite bands are playing. Attending gigs like this would meet the
needs of a reader and would also allow them to mix with people who share the same
music taste.
Another example of uses and gratifications of this magazine contents page is the âNewsâ giving readers a chance to diverse; escape from the
real word and enter the news of famous bands. Most teenagers and young adults like to be informed about the latest news on celebrities
and buying a magazine is a great way to find out and most importantly relax and read something you are interested it.
Reading about the latest news can improve personal relationships as you are able to keep up to date with friends, casting conversations
based on the latest news etc.
Offering a âSwagâ section whereby in this issue âCool Sneakersâ are included would benefit a reader as it informs them on the latest
trends, which may meet their personal needs.
As a whole knowledge would be enhanced as target audience users will be gaining up to date new information on bands and artists
they are interested in.