The magazine uses a monochrome colour scheme for the main splash and light blues and blacks for the text. This connotes seriousness and follows the MOJO trend of treating musicians with respect and reverence. As usual the musicians are presented as having had a hard struggle in their lives and Joni Mitchell claims her "gift was born of tragedy".
Most MOJO magazines present male musicians on their front cover, but this one is an anti-stereotype and presents a female musician. Also contrary to most covers, the musician looks quite friendly and welcoming, whereas usually they seem to be placed upon a pedestal above the reader.
Mark 2 out of 4 for analysing the representation of musicians on the MOJO cover.
ReplyDeleteYou have confused the 'representation' question with the 'media language' question. You must not write on layout and colour in this question unless it is part of how the musician is represented.
You are right about Joni's depiction as having struggled. You could improve your answer by also commenting on the 'agony and the ecstasy' depiction of Joni's life as one of a tormented genius, typical of the respect which MOJO accords rock legends and 'geniuses'. The reference to Bowie's 'betrayal' is similar with its connotations of controversy and suffering for his art. There are also references to the 'magic' of Lovin' Spoonful's John Sebastian, which connotes his special status and the reverence of the MOJO audience. The Specials feature as typical icons with their 40 years track record.