As Black History Month commences, TidalWave Productions celebrates the contributions of Black cultural icons through a stimulating series of biographical comic books and graphic novels, with releases beginning Feb. 5.
The independent comic book publisher, known for its diverse catalog and commitment to storytelling, releases multiple titles highlighting the lives and achievements of Black leaders in music, sports and entertainment.
For 16 years, TidalWave has recognized Black History Month by showcasing the accomplishments of influential Black figures. With over a decade of experience producing biographical comics, the publisher crafted engaging and educational stories spotlighting individuals who have shaped history.
This year’s collection features new books dedicated to cultural giants such as Beyoncé, Halle Berry, Dr. Dre, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Mike Tyson and Muhammad Ali.
TidalWave’s 2024 Black History Month lineup features single-issue biographies and extensive graphic novels, offering readers a slew of ways to engage with the stories of trailblazers.
One of the key releases is “Black History Leaders: Volume 5,” a 96-page graphic novel delving into the impact of music and cultural icons Janet Jackson, Tupac Shakur, Beyoncé and Rihanna. This installment highlights how these artists have influenced music, culture and social movements.
Academy Award-winning actress Halle Berry is the subject of “Female Force: Halle Berry,” a 22-page comic book biography available Feb. 12. The story chronicles Berry’s journey from her early struggles to breaking racial and gender barriers in Hollywood.
Next, TidalWave releases “Female Force: Beyoncé: The Graphic Novel,” detailing the evolution of the globally renowned singer and businesswoman on Feb. 19. The graphic novel follows her career from Destiny’s Child to her recent Grammy-winning country album “Cowboy Carter,” emphasizing her influence on music, feminism and social activism.
Hip-hop enthusiasts will find interest in “FAME: Dr. Dre,” a 22-page comic book biography also launching on Feb. 19. The book explores Dr. Dre’s rise from Compton, California to becoming a pioneering producer in rap and G-funk, as well as his enduring legacy in the music industry.
TidalWave’s tribute to Black athletes will culminate in Black History Leaders: Sports Volume 2, a 96-page graphic novel scheduled for release on Feb. 26. This collection honors basketball legends Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant alongside boxing icons Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson. The illustrated stories highlight their perseverance, contributions to sports and broader influence on culture and civil rights.
TidalWave’s founder, Darren Davis, recognizes the importance of graphic storytelling in engaging audiences of all ages.
“I was a reluctant reader as a kid,” Davis said. “But comic books drew me in. Something magical about the combination of words and pictures working together appealed to me.”
With an extensive library of more than 200 biographical comics, TidalWave previously featured figures such as Jackie Robinson, Tina Turner, Colin Powell, Brittney Griner, Oprah Winfrey, Megan Thee Stallion and Stacey Abrams.
You can learn more about the Black-owned publishing company at tidalwave.com.
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846. Follow him on TikTok @3Noral. For more news, click here.
Noral Parham is the multi-media & senior sports reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder, one of the oldest Black publications in the country. Parham has worked with various leagues to provide a diverse perspective in sports, including the Big Ten, Big East, IHSAA, IndyCar, MLB, NHRA, NFL, NBA, WNBA, WWE and the Olympics. Prior to joining the Recorder, Parham served as the community advocate of the MLK Center in Indianapolis and senior copywriter for an e-commerce and marketing firm in Denver.
