Tobias Hess is a New York–based music and culture journalist whose work at The FADER has quickly positioned him as one of the publication’s sharpest emerging voices. As an Associate Editor, he covers everything from internet‑born aesthetics to genre‑shifting artists, bringing a blend of cultural fluency and digital‑native insight to every piece. His writing often traces how online identity, youth culture, and sonic experimentation intersect — a perspective shaped by his background in nightlife reporting and internet‑culture analysis.

Before joining The FADER, Hess contributed to PAPER Magazine, where he profiled rising pop disruptors, underground scenes, and the shifting rhythms of online celebrity. His portfolio spans music criticism, artist profiles, and trend analysis, consistently highlighting the emotional and aesthetic codes that define Gen Z’s creative landscape. His work also appears across outlets like Interview Magazine, LA Weekly, Flaunt, and Substack, reflecting a versatile voice that moves fluidly between editorial formats.

Today, Hess’s reporting at The FADER includes breaking news, deep‑dive features, and cultural commentary that captures the pulse of contemporary music. Whether unpacking Mitski’s latest sonic shift or mapping the future of festival lineups, he approaches each story with a mix of curiosity, precision, and a distinctly modern sense of narrative. His writing doesn’t just document what’s happening — it helps readers understand why it matters now.