Performing Songwriter Ceases Publication

“It’s kind of a celebration of sorts,” says Performing Songwriter Publisher/founder Lydia Hutchinson. “I always wondered what the finish line would look like, but now it’s clear to me we have reached it.” The 16-year-old publication will cease publication after its June issue.

“As sad as change and letting go are, it feels like a celebration of accomplishment more than anything else,” said Hutchinson. “There was a moment of clarity after we signed off on this June issue, telling me that now is indeed the time to let go and end at its peak. This publication started with no funding 16 years ago out of my guest bedroom and has never taken one penny of investment money. It’s been completely supported by advertisers, subscribers and the community it represents. Performing Songwriter has always had a big heart, and our job was to take care of it so it could do its magic. By ceasing publication now we know the magazine will never risk losing its integrity and or its quality. All of us here are grateful for this journey, and feel like we’ve crossed the finish line with our heads held high.”

Performing Songwriter’s most recent online information claims a circulation of 55,000, readership of 150,000 and 8X per year print schedule. A one year subscription was $25.95 in the U.S. Its web site address is http://www.performingsongwriter.com. Although Performing Songwriter will cease publication, Hutchinson says the PS offices will remain open while she writes the next chapter in her career. “I feel like somehow it will include songwriters,” she added.

In an open letter to readers, advertisers and staff Hutchinson wrote, “We know there’s a train coming in the form of an uncertain economy. We know there are changes that need to be made due to the nature of both the print and music industries that will affect the essential spirit of the magazine and take it in a direction that’s not really true to itself. And we know the only thing we have control over is this moment and our decision to lay the magazine down on our terms. It will be with dignity and pride, knowing the quality will never be sacrificed, its debts will be fully paid, our hearts will remain filled with gratitude, and we can stand tall knowing that we did it and it was a job well done. I can’t think of a more beautiful way to end this chapter of a most incredible journey.”