Email Yvonne at: yvonne@kisswtlz.com
It looks like the likelihood of Earvin Magic Johnson buying Johnson Publishing is no longer in the offing.
In a statement, Johnson admitted an affiliate of his company held “advanced discussions” to buy Johnson Publishing Co., the owner of Ebony and Jet, but was unable to reach an agreement.
Johnson says he remains interested in African-American media, but currently isn’t disclosing whether he is looking at other properties:
“I would like to salute Linda Johnson Rice and the Johnson family for pioneering the iconic brand of the Johnson Publishing Company, which we have all come to love and respect. Ebony and Jet have been permanent fixtures on coffee tables in African-American homes for many years. Recently, an affiliate of Magic Johnson Enterprises and Johnson Publishing Company were in advanced discussions to do business together, but unfortunately we were unable to reach a definitive agreement. We will continue to look for opportunities to invest in African-American media.”
Linda Johnson Rice
Meanwhile, Wendy E. Parks, Johnson Publishing Co. spokeswoman, issued this statement to Journal-isms:
“Our team of advisers have continued to explore a wide range of options to leverage our iconic Ebony and Jet brands and sustain our leadership position in the marketplace as the No. 1 African-American-owned publishing company in the world. As a privately held company, we are unable to discuss specifics of our discussions with potential partners.”
Ad revenue at Johnson Publishing’s Ebony magazine declined 38 percent to $35.5 million last year on a 39 percent drop in ad pages, according to Publishers Information Bureau.
Los Angeles-based Magic Johnson Enterprises, has partnerships with several companies including Starbucks Corp., 24 Hour Fitness Worldwide Inc. and T.G.I. Friday’s Inc.
*Mary J. Blige, Robin Thicke, John Legend, Melanie Fiona, Joe Sample and Cassandra Wilson are among performers lined up for this year’s Jazz in the Gardens festival (March 20-21 in Miami Gardens, Florida). DJing the festival this year will be songwriter/producer Bryan-Michael Cox.
*Radio pioneer Johnny Morris will be honored in Los Angeles for his 45 years in broadcasting during a ceremony dubbed “On the Air with Johnny Morris: 45 Years In The Game,” to be held Monday, Jan. 25 at The Conga Room (800 W. Olympic Blvd) at 7 p.m. The evening will include tributes and live performances from “American Idol” finalist Donnie Williams, R&B singer Randy Wilson, soul great Charles Wright, the Bay Area’s own Dwayne Wiggins of Tony! Toni! Tone! and Lenny Williams.
Lillias White
*Tony Award winner Lillias White, back on Broadway in the new musical Fela, will offer a Valentine’s Day concert at the Iridium Jazz Club in Manhattan (1650 Broadway). The midnight gig on Feb. 14 will be “all about love – the good, the bad and the ugly,” according to press notes. Tickets are $25 with a $10 food and beverage minimum. For tickets go to www.ticketweb.com. Visit www.iridiumjazzclub.com or call (212) 582-2121 for more information.
