6 Forgotten Magazines from the 70s That Deserve a Comeback
The 1970s was a vibrant decade filled with cultural shifts and unique trends that shaped future generations.
Among its many contributions, this era produced a variety of fascinating magazines that entertained and informed readers.
While many of these publications have vanished from modern memory, they were once at the forefront of popular culture.
Have you ever wondered which magazines captivated audiences in the ’70s but are now largely forgotten? Exploring these hidden gems can give you a glimpse into the past and reveal how different themes and interests captivated readers back then.
Join us as we take a stroll down memory lane and revisit six noteworthy magazines from that groovy decade.
1) Groovy
Groovy magazine was a staple of the ’70s, capturing the essence of the era with its vibrant and fun content.
You would find a mix of colorful photography, covering everything from fashion trends to celebrity gossip.
It was a go-to source for anyone looking to stay in the loop.
Music lovers found Groovy indispensable.
The magazine featured interviews with popular bands, album reviews, and exclusive stories from the music scene.
Readers also enjoyed its sections on movie premieres, key social movements of the decade, and even some quirky advice columns.
The pages were always packed with the latest happenings.
Groovy not only documented the times but also influenced the culture.
Its unique voice and style left a lasting impact, making it a cherished memory for many who grew up in that groovy decade.
2) After Dark
After Dark was an entertainment magazine that started in May 1968.
It covered theater, cinema, stage plays, ballet, and performance art.
You’d find interviews with singers, actors, actresses, and dancers.
Patrick Pacheco took over as editor in the late 1970s.
He aimed to make the magazine more serious.
The magazine ran until 1983.
If you were a closeted gay man at the time, you might have recognized that the magazine was for you.
The content often included coded messages and themes that resonated with the LGBTQ+ community, even if it went unnoticed by others.
Classic covers featured big names like Tab Hunter, Chita Rivera, and Mikhail Baryshnikov.
Each issue was packed with articles and photos highlighting the vibrant entertainment scene of the ’70s.
Collecting old issues of After Dark has become popular.
These magazines are considered valuable by fans and collectors.
They offer a unique glimpse into a past era of entertainment.
3) Dynamite
If you were a kid in the late ’70s and ’80s, you probably remember Dynamite magazine.
This gem was published by Scholastic from 1974 to 1992 and had a bit of everything.
It was a mainstay in many school libraries and classrooms.
Dynamite wasn’t just about reading.
It was packed with puzzles, jokes, and posters of your favorite stars.
You could find features on celebrities, TV shows, and popular movies.
Their covers were colorful and featured popular figures like Lindsay Wagner from “The Bionic Woman” and even characters from “Star Wars.” They didn’t miss out on fads either, featuring everything from Shaun Cassidy to “Knight Rider.”
Even though it’s been out of print for years, you can still find copies floating around online.
Collectors love getting their hands on these pieces of nostalgia.
If you find one, it’s like opening a time capsule to the ’80s.
Dynamite truly captured what kids loved back then and delivered it right to their mailboxes, making it a beloved part of growing up for many.
4) Flash
In the 1970s, “Flash” magazine was a standout among comic book fans.
It brought the adventures of the Scarlet Speedster, also known as The Flash, to life in a way that was both thrilling and fun.
Cary Bates, a popular writer at the time, often crafted captivating stories for “Flash.” His work kept readers engaged, making each issue feel exciting and new.
The art in “Flash” was also a highlight.
With dynamic and expressive illustrations, the artwork added to the action-packed stories and drew readers in immediately.
Though “Flash” had its ups and downs, it left a lasting impact on comic book lovers.
Many fans fondly remember the vibrant covers and gripping tales that filled its pages.
If you ever come across an old copy of “Flash,” take a moment to flip through it.
You might just find yourself transported back to a time when comic books were filled with pure, unfiltered adventure.
5) Arena
Arena was a British men’s magazine that launched in 1986.
You’d find everything from fashion tips to interviews with celebrities.
The magazine was known for its high-quality photography and deep articles.
It catered to a stylish, modern man, blending culture, style, and entertainment.
The magazine featured a variety of famous faces.
Arnold Schwarzenegger, James Woods, and Robert Palmer all graced its pages.
Each issue offered a fresh set of interviews and photo spreads, appealing to many readers who sought a mix of celebrity and fashion.
Arena is part of the legacy of print media from the 70s and 80s.
Even though it’s not widely remembered today, it played a key role in shaping men’s lifestyle journalism.
6) Ranger Rick
In the 70s, you might have picked up an issue of Ranger Rick.
This magazine was all about connecting kids with nature.
It was published by the National Wildlife Federation and featured a talkative raccoon named Ranger Rick.
Ranger Rick wasn’t just about cute animals.
Each issue was packed with wildlife photos and fun facts.
It made learning about nature exciting.
You’d find stories about different animals, cool environmental tips, and activities you could do outside.
The goal was to inspire kids to care about the environment.
Ranger Rick helped you learn how to protect wildlife and appreciate the great outdoors.
The magazine continued its mission for years and became a beloved memory for many.
If you ever read Ranger Rick, you’d remember how fun it was to learn about nature.
Cultural Impact of 70s Magazines
Magazines in the 1970s had a massive influence on music, fashion, and public opinion.
They were powerful tools that reflected and shaped the culture of that era.
Influence on Music and Fashion
Magazines like Rolling Stone were essential in promoting music and musicians.
They gave you insights into the lives of rock stars and reviewed albums, helping you decide which records to buy. Fashion magazines such as Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar showcased the latest trends, setting style standards that many followed.
Specialty magazines like Creem focused on emerging subcultures, like punk and heavy metal. Rags, though short-lived, significantly impacted street style and opposed conventional fashion norms.
Shaping Public Opinion
Magazines also played a crucial role in shaping public opinion.
Publications like Time and Life covered important news stories and offered in-depth analysis.
Articles in magazines could sway how you felt about political events, social issues, and cultural movements.
Playboy wasn’t just about adult content; it featured interviews with influential people discussing pressing issues of the time.
These interviews reached a broad audience and sparked discussions on various topics, from civil rights to women’s liberation.
Magazine Publishing Trends in the 70s
In the 70s, magazine publishing saw a rise in niche publications and grappled with challenges as print media competed with other forms of entertainment.
Rise of Niche Publications
The 70s was marked by a boom in magazines catering to specific interests.
You had magazines like Sequoia, showcasing literary work, and Rags, defining countercultural fashion. Sequoia focused on unique content from Stanford writers, making it stand out. Rags captured the spirit of the era by challenging traditional dress codes and promoting street style.
Publishing houses recognized the demand for specialized content, leading to a diversity of new magazines focusing on unique subjects, from science fiction to music to lifestyle, thus meeting the distinct interests of different readerships.
Challenges Faced by Print Media
Despite the growth in niche markets, print media faced significant hurdles.
Television and radio were strong competitors, offering instant information and entertainment.
Additionally, production costs for print magazines were high, with expenses for printing, distribution, and marketing.
Economic downturns made advertising revenue, which many magazines heavily relied on, unpredictable.
Some magazines, like those collecting all issues from a year in bound volumes, used creative methods to attract subscribers.
The fluid dynamic of pop culture and politics also required editors to continuously adapt, making it challenging to consistently captivate readers’ interests.
Niche magazines had to stay innovative to survive during these times.
Collecting 70s Magazines Today
Collecting magazines from the 1970s can be both fun and rewarding.
You might find valuable gems hidden in the content, covers, and unique advertisements.
Why They Are Valuable
Magazines from the 70s have historic and nostalgic value.
They capture iconic moments and cultural shifts, offering a snapshot of the past.
Collectibles like early issues of Starlog, Fangoria, and Hustler can be worth a lot, especially if they’re in good condition.
Rarity also plays a big role.
For instance, the first issue of National Geographic from 1888 is extremely rare and valuable, but more recent editions from the 70s can still fetch a good price if they are well-preserved and desirable.
Contents such as interviews with celebrities, original photography, and advertisements for now-vintage products also add to their worth.
People love to see how things have changed or stayed the same.
Tips for Aspiring Collectors
Look for magazines in excellent condition.
Covers should be intact, pages should not be torn, and there should be minimal staining or yellowing.
Key Tips:
- Research Popular Titles: Magazines like Famous Monsters and Cinefantastique were popular in the 70s and are still sought after today.
- Check for Special Editions: Special issues or those with notable first appearances can be particularly valuable.
- Buy Protective Supplies: Invest in acid-free storage materials to keep your magazines in good shape.
Hunt in thrift shops, online marketplaces, and estate sales.
Patience and persistence are key.
The thrill of the hunt is part of the fun!