Since the original release of BAD REPUTATION and I LOVE ROCK ‘n’ ROLL in 1981, these timeless anthemic albums have been the soundtrack to generations. Now, in celebration of this 40th anniversary, an unparalleled team of creators brings these songs to life as 20 vivid stories in this singular graphic novel.
Joan Jett and the Blackhearts – 40×40: Bad Reputation/I Love Rock n’ Roll is written by Amanda Deibert, Jazzlyn Stone, Evgenia Vereli, Jamaica Dyer, Wiktoria Radkiewicz, Cat Mihos and Annie Zaleski and illustrated by Cat Staggs, Liana Kangas, Vereli, Dyer, Radkiewicz and Zaleski.
“When we began working with Z2 Comics on Joan Jett and the Blackhearts 40 x 40 for the 40th Anniversary of I Love Rock ‘n Roll and Bad Reputation, we reflected on all the rejection and opposition Joan faced from the industry as a woman with a guitar, especially at the beginning of her career,” said Carianne Brinkman, president of Blackheart Records. “Luckily, she blocked out the noise and showed the doubters she could do it herself. The comic world, much like the rock ‘n’ roll world, is fairly underrepresented in terms of women, particularly in the mainstream. We thought this was a great opportunity to celebrate comic writers and illustrators who happen to be women, and who, like Joan, are constantly being asked what it’s like to be ‘a WOMAN….’ in their respective industries. We are so excited to bring these amazing artists and writers together to celebrate this milestone anniversary.”
“Joan Jett is the epitome of a rock ‘n’ roll icon and a powerful force of a woman,” added McPherson. “When I was young and teaching myself how to play bass and starting bands, she was such an inspiration to me, and I know to so many other girls as well. She’s a fierce woman making no apologies, showing females they have a place in rock!”‘