Rolling Stone is an American music, politics, and popular culture magazine founded in 1967. This copy is dated December 14, 1978, Issue No. 280, priced $1.00 US / 60p UK, and features Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong on the cover.

The main cover feature The Sweet Smell of Success – Cheech and Chong by Charles Perry examines the duo’s rise from underground counter‑culture comedians to mainstream box‑office and recording success, capturing a key moment in late‑1970s comedy and cannabis culture.

The cover image shows Cheech and Chong flanking a shirtless man in a deliberately provocative and absurd pose, reflecting the duo’s anarchic humour and Rolling Stone’s willingness at the time to blend satire, shock, and cultural commentary.

Additional major cover features include:

Billy Joel – The Miracle of 52nd Street by Dave Marsh

Hot Child’s Nick Gilder – Chicago Alive Again

Murder – The Trials of Ted Bundy by Michael Daly

The framed border and dense editorial layout are typical of late‑1970s Rolling Stone, balancing music journalism, comedy, and true‑crime reporting within a single issue.

This issue is particularly notable for its true‑crime crossover appeal, with the Ted Bundy trial coverage adding historical weight beyond music and comedy interest.

Condition:

Cover present with heavy age toning, edge wear, creasing, staple rust bleed, and handling marks consistent with age. Spine stress visible. Bagged for protection. Small handwritten price sticker present.

Format: Standard magazine

Publication: Rolling Stone

Issue Date: December 14, 1978

Cover Feature: Cheech and Chong

Country: United States