Widely respected British music journalist Joseph ‘JP’ Patterson has been promoted to Editor-In-Chief of youth media brand Complex UK.
He takes over as Editor-In-Chief from Steve Slocombe, who is now Head of Content.
With over 10 years’ music industry experience, starting out as a club night promoter in 2007, Patterson has previously held positions at MTV UK and MTV World and has written for the likes of Pitchfork, Mixmag, and The Independent.
He also runs his own platform, TRENCH Magazine, which launched in 2017 and is dedicated to Black British music and culture.
New York-based Complex Networks launched in the UK under Manchester-based agency, w00t! Media, in 2014.
Patterson joined the London office before launch as Music Editor, and then became Senior Editor in 2016.
In his new role, Patterson will oversee the overall direction of the UK publication, which covers music, style, pop culture and social issues, and work closely with the branded content team on executing larger campaigns.
“From day one working behind the scenes to launch Complex in the UK in 2014, to now be leading the platform into a new era, I’m honestly just grateful to still be here doing what I love.”
Joseph ‘JP’ Patterson
Patterson said: “From day one working behind the scenes to launch Complex in the UK in 2014, to now be leading the platform into a new era, I’m honestly just grateful to still be here doing what I love.
“Complex is one of the largest media brands in the world and I think we’ve been able to successfully make its UK edition reputable in many ways.
“I now want to find the next JP, the next young stars of music and culture journalism and help them become the best that they can be.”
“He is one of the most respected figures in UK music journalism and has been a hugely prominent and significant force in advancing the cause of black journalists within the UK music scene.”
Steve Slocombe
Steve Slocombe, Head of Content, said: “This role is one that JP richly deserves.
“He is one of the most respected figures in UK music journalism and has been a hugely prominent and significant force in advancing the cause of black journalists within the UK music scene.
“He has a great ear for spotting up-and coming talent, and his credits list reads like a who’s who for the worlds of UK rap, grime, drill, Afrobeats, R&B and more.”
“I’ve been delighted to watch his rise to the top of his game and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”
Austen Kay, w00t! Media
Austen Kay, w00t! Media CEO, added: “JP’s loyalty, hard work and commitment to growing Complex UK has been evident to everyone since joining the team seven years ago.
“I’ve been delighted to watch his rise to the top of his game and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”Music Business Worldwide
