Clarence O. Smith, the visionary co-founder of ESSENCE magazine, passed away on April 21 at age 92. His groundbreaking work transformed media representation for Black women across America. Smith created a cultural institution that continues to influence generations.
Together with Edward Lewis, Cecil Hollingsworth, and Jonathan Blount, Smith launched ESSENCE in 1970. The publication filled a critical void in media dedicated to Black women. Under his guidance, ESSENCE reached an impressive readership of 7.5 million at its peak.
Media Pioneer Who Created Space for Black Women
Smith recognized the glaring absence of publications celebrating Black women’s experiences and beauty. His vision provided a platform where Black women could see themselves authentically represented. This revolutionary concept changed the publishing landscape forever.
EBONY magazine honored Smith on social media, writing: “Clarence O. Smith, co-founder of ESSENCE, has passed at 92. A true visionary, he created space for Black women when few would. His work reshaped media, culture & community.” His influence extended far beyond publishing into broader cultural representation.
ESSENCE Empire Builder Who Transformed Black Media
Beyond the flagship magazine, Smith expanded ESSENCE Communications into multiple successful ventures. These included the ESSENCE Awards, ESSENCE Television, and the ESSENCE Festival of Culture. Each extension amplified Black women’s voices across different platforms.
Former ESSENCE editor Susan Taylor praised Smith’s business acumen and vision. “He shifted hearts, minds—and investment choices—in the conventional advertising world,” Taylor wrote. “With the income he and his teams primarily generated, we editors were able to grow the magazine’s beauty and depth.” His business skills directly enabled editorial excellence.
Bronx-Born Entrepreneur With Military Background
Smith’s journey began in the Bronx, New York, where he was born on March 31, 1933. His professional path included service in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1959. This military experience provided discipline that would later benefit his business ventures.
After his military service, Smith pursued business education at the Baruch School of Business. He gained valuable experience working for Prudential Insurance in its Investors Planning Corporation. These early career steps built the foundation for his later entrepreneurial success.
Award-Winning Publisher Who Changed Advertising Standards
Throughout his career, Smith earned numerous prestigious recognitions for his groundbreaking work. In 1994, he received the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award for Publishing. The A.G. Gaston Lifetime Achievement Award followed in 1997.
Smith’s greatest achievement was challenging and changing advertising industry standards. He convinced major companies to value Black women consumers through ESSENCE. This shifted marketing dollars toward Black publications and created new economic opportunities.
Cultural Icon Who Celebrated Black Beauty and Excellence
ESSENCE quickly became more than just a magazine under Smith’s leadership. It evolved into a cultural touchstone celebrating Black women’s beauty, power, and achievements. The publication consistently highlighted success stories often overlooked by mainstream media.
Smith understood the importance of creating spaces where Black excellence could be showcased. Through ESSENCE, he provided consistent positive representation that countered negative stereotypes. This vision helped reshape cultural narratives about Black womanhood.
ESSENCE Festival Creator Whose Impact Transcended Print
Perhaps Smith’s most enduring contribution was helping establish the ESSENCE Festival of Culture. This annual celebration grew into the largest African American cultural event in the United States. Thousands gather each year continuing Smith’s mission of celebration and empowerment.
The festival represents Smith’s understanding that community extends beyond printed pages. By creating real-world gathering spaces, he fostered connections among readers. This community-building approach strengthened ESSENCE’s cultural influence and longevity.
Legacy Bearer Whose Vision Continues Through Generations
Smith is survived by his wife, Elaine, and their family. Yet his true family extends to millions of readers whose lives were touched by his vision. Each issue of ESSENCE carries forward his commitment to celebrating Black women’s experiences.
Today’s media landscape includes numerous publications focused on diverse audiences. Many follow the path Smith pioneered over five decades ago. His willingness to create space where none existed remains an inspiration for media entrepreneurs worldwide.
