The idea behind Off the Record is to dig deeper and provide quality interviews and reviews that paint a unique, multifaceted portrait of the artists we cover. We aim to move past the superficial, surface-level content that saturates much of the music media landscape today. Our mission is to uncover the hidden stories, the unsung talents, and the treasure that lies beneath the polished facade.
Founded by Editor-in-Chiefs Sloane and Reegan Johnson, Off the Record began as a passion project to explore the inner workings of the music industry. Starting with up-and-coming artists from the vibrant Chicago scene, the magazine has since expanded its reach across the Midwest and beyond.
What sets Off the Record apart is our global team of contributors, hailing from creative hubs like London, Los Angeles, New York, and more. This diversity of perspectives allows us to provide the most well-rounded, insightful coverage of a wide array of musical genres and artists. We believe that exposing our readers to this plethora of sounds and styles can truly broaden and elevate the musical palate of the everyday music fan.
Whether it's shining a spotlight on that scrappy, unsigned act on the horizon of their big break or going in-depth with the biggest sensations, Off the Record is committed to serving both the casual listener and the diehard fanatic. Our aim is to deliver the most compelling, thought-provoking content about the artists our readers know and love, from Wallows to Beabadoobee to My Chemical Romance and beyond.
Even in the year of pop acts going country, Gwen Stefani seemed like an unlikely face to join in on the fun. Sure, she married Blake Shelton in 2021, but how could the former No Doubt frontwoman and early aughts pop goddess possibly abandon her brilliant knack for quirky ska gold and creamy smooth pop magic?