5 Comic Books by Musicians, that you should Collect!
This one is really exciting! As we all know, musicians are often incredibly multitalented, and one of my favorite things is seeing them expand their creativity beyond music—especially when they create their own comic books as merch. There’s something special about artists expressing their vision in multiple mediums. I hope you enjoy this read, and who knows? Maybe I’ll introduce you to a new hobby or spark a new collection in your game room.
2/12/20253 min read
5 Must-Own Comic Books Created by Musicians
Music and comic books have long shared a deep connection, with both art forms pushing creative boundaries and telling captivating stories. Over the years, several musicians have ventured into the world of comics, bringing their unique perspectives and storytelling abilities to the medium. Here are five must-read comic books created by musicians, each offering something fresh and exciting for fans of both music and graphic novels.
1. “The Umbrella Academy” – Gerard Way
Musician: My Chemical Romance
Gerard Way, the frontman of My Chemical Romance, has made a significant mark in the comic book world with The Umbrella Academy. First published in 2007 by Dark Horse Comics, the series follows a dysfunctional family of adopted superhero siblings who reunite after their father’s death to prevent an impending apocalypse. With its eccentric characters and unpredictable storytelling, The Umbrella Academy has become a fan favorite and was even adapted into a hit Netflix series.
2. “Apocrypha: The Legend of Babymetal” – Babymetal
Musician: Babymetal
Japanese metal idols Babymetal combined their signature blend of heavy metal and J-pop with fantasy storytelling in Apocrypha: The Legend of Babymetal. Released in 2018, this graphic novel explores the mythos behind the band’s unique universe, featuring a battle between good and evil with an epic, cosmic scale. The book delves into the idea that Babymetal exists in a realm beyond time and space, making it a must-read for fans of the band and mythological adventures alike.
3. “Kill Audio” – Claudio Sanchez
Musician: Coheed and Cambria
Claudio Sanchez, known for blending sci-fi storytelling into his band Coheed and Cambria’s music, also extends that creativity into the world of comics. Kill Audio, published in 2009 by Boom! Studios, follows an immortal character named Kill Audio as he struggles with his own existence and purpose in a surreal, dreamlike world filled with music-inspired landscapes and bizarre creatures. With its offbeat humor and vivid artwork, Kill Audio is an essential read for fans of experimental storytelling.
4. “Loner” – Alison Wonderland
Musician: Alison Wonderland
Electronic music producer and DJ Alison Wonderland expanded her creative vision beyond music with Loner, a graphic novel released in 2023. Inspired by her album of the same name, the novel explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and transformation through a surreal, neon-drenched cyberpunk world. Blending sci-fi and psychological storytelling, Loner follows a protagonist navigating a fragmented reality, much like the emotional journey Alison Wonderland conveys in her music. With stunning visuals and an immersive narrative, the novel offers fans a deeper dive into the artist’s mind and creative universe. Available online and at Z2 Comics.
5. “Neon Future” – Steve Aoki
Musician: Steve Aoki
Electronic music producer and DJ Steve Aoki teamed up with Impact Theory Comics to create Neon Future, a sci-fi cyberpunk comic series set in a futuristic world where technology-enhanced humans are outlawed. Blending elements of AI, transhumanism, and dystopian storytelling, Neon Future explores deep philosophical questions while maintaining a fast-paced, action-packed narrative. It’s a compelling read for fans of both Aoki’s music and thought-provoking science fiction.
