Zoo magazine was published monthly from 1986 until 2008, and it was originally known for its erotic photography featuring young women. However, during its run, it also covered popular culture topics such as music. Music features included artist interviews, album reviews, and festival coverage, which linked Zoo to the vibrant British music scene. This content broadened its cultural reach and helped position Zoo as more than just an erotic magazine, appealing to wider lifestyle interests.
During the early years of Zoo, music coverage began with the publication's third issue. The magazine featured an interview with Duran Duran's Simon Le Bon discussing their upcoming album Seven and the Ragged Tiger. Since then, Zoo continued covering bands like New Order, U2, The Smiths, and Depeche Mode. It also reported on festivals such as Reading Festival and Glastonbury, giving readers a behind-the-scenes look at the music industry.
Music coverage helped differentiate Zoo from other erotic publications, making it stand out among competitors in a crowded market. By including these features, Zoo became a go-to source for music news and trends, cementing itself as a must-read for music fans across Britain. This shift towards cultural relevance helped increase circulation numbers and allowed Zoo to expand into new markets outside of London.
In addition to its music coverage, Zoo also covered fashion and art, showcasing emerging designers and visual artists. These articles provided insight into the creative world beyond the pages of Zoo, further solidifying its reputation as a lifestyle brand. Zoo's focus on diversity allowed it to appeal to a wide range of audiences, and its commitment to quality journalism ensured that readers could trust its reporting.
Overall, Zoo's integration of popular culture helped make it one of the most successful erotic magazines in British history. Its music coverage brought in new readers while simultaneously keeping existing ones engaged with exciting content. Today, many credit Zoo's success to its willingness to adapt and evolve with changing times, allowing it to remain relevant despite the competition.