• by Sara Guaglione , September 16, 2019

Valence Media, the owner of the Hollywood Reporter-Billboard Media Group, has let go of seven editorial staffers across music-focused brands Spin, Vibe and Stereogum.

The Hollywood Reporter-Billboard Media Group, which also includes The Hollywood Reporter and Billboard brands, houses over 400 staffers.

Two staff writers were let go at Spin; the other five employees were at Vibe and Stereogum. 

No additional details were given on which positions were cut or which departments were affected.

A source told Publishers Daily the layoffs are part of a strategic shift at the Spin Media division to lean into a mobile-first content strategy, with a focus on social and video. 

The company wants to target a young, multicultural audience passionate about music.

Going forward, Spin Media will invest in new businesses and content strategies, the source said.

In January, about 22 people were laid off at Valence Media. Dana Miller, CMO for The Hollywood Reporter and Billboard, and Jayme Klock, Billboard magazine managing editor, were among those let go.

The Hollywood Reporter-Billboard Media Group was acquired and folded into Valence Media last February, along with Dick Clark Productions and Media Rights Capital.