Buzzmedia — the online publisher which owns such websites as Stereogum, Celebuzz, Idolator, XLR8R, and dozens of others, and is a part-owner of Hype Machine and Brooklyn Vegan — rebranded itself SpinMedia this morning, taking its name from Spin Magazine, which they acquired last year. Shortly after purchasing the more than two-decade old magazine, the company shut down its print division, but retained the name and site.
The new SpinMedia also shook up its leadership team, promoting Steve Hansen to CEO and naming former Buzzmedia CEO Tyler Goldman Executive Chair of the Board. As part of the new initiative, the company is planning to make changes that will attempt to further engage its audience across a number of platforms, and closed a $15 million round of funding toward that goal.
“At our core, we understand how to tap into fan obsessions across pop culture and music through authoritative brands that connect with one in four millenials,” said Hansen in a statement. “Now, we’re strengthening our lead with a completely new technology infrastructure that better serves fans, delivering them compelling content and creating unforgettable experiences that they can consume anywhere, anytime with an unmatched richness and depth. We’re also creating unique advertiser integrations that leverage our brands’ abilities to connect with consumers online and offline.”
Buzzmedia had recently laid off 50 employees, which amounted to approximately 20 percent of its overall staff, in February, saying at the time that it was focusing on the business side of its properties and on targeted advertising across its forty-plus websites.
“Our mission has never wavered,” Hansen said. “We indulge our obsessive passion for culture — and invite you to come along… Today’s digital world gives us unprecedented opportunities to connect our audience to the things they love. We believe that the story only begins when the publish button is pushed.”