The urban music magazine launched by superproducer Quincy Jones has shut down after a dramatic fall in sales.

Vibe magazine, founded by Jones in 1993, has ceased production following a tough few months for print publications.

The magazine focused on hip-hop stars, their music and personal lives.

Editor Danyel Smith announced the news on Tuesday, but insists there will be a Michael Jackson tribute edition before the publication closes for good.

Smith says in a statement, "On behalf of the Vibe Content staff (the best in this business), it is with great sadness, and with heads held high, that we leave the building today.

"We were assigning and editing a Michael Jackson tribute issue when we got the news. It's a tragic week in overall (sic), but as the doors of VIBE Media Group close, on the eve of the magazine's sixteenth anniversary, it's a sad day for music, for hip-hop in particular, and for the millions of readers and users who have loved and who continue to love the VIBE brand. We thank you, we have served you with joy, pride and excellence, and we will miss you."

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(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)