Jimi Hendrix: Purple Haze Graphic Novel Writers Talk About the New Project!
SciFiction has experienced a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to engage with the creators of the highly
anticipated graphic novel Jimi Hendrix: Purple Haze. Combining rock ‘n roll and space opera, this epic sci-
fi masterpiece collaborates with Janie Hendrix (Jimi Hendrix’s sister) and acclaimed writers DJ Ben Ha
Meen and Mellow Brown (Blade Runner: Tokyo Nexus ). Unleash your imagination and join the journey
now. It is an epic tale that combines the essence of rock ‘n roll with a futuristic storyline. Join forces with
creators of “Jimi Hendrix: Purple Haze” and let your imagination soar to new heights. With Janie
Hendrix, DJ Ben Ha Meen, and Mellow Brown behind the masterpiece, you’ll be captivated from
beginning to end. Grab your copy now and immerse yourself in the adventure.
Below, you will see the questions asked by SciFiction and the writers Mellow Brown and DJ Ben Ha
Meen responses:
MELLOW BROWN:
As a product or industry expert, you are already well-versed in science fiction, specifically
having experience with Blade Runner origins. Throughout the process of creating this
captivating graphic novel with Janie, you have faced challenges that you had to overcome.
Can you share any of these difficulties with us?
It was primarily making sure we were getting a story about Jimi correct before we came to
Janie. It was almost like detective work, because we were looking for a story that wasn’t
documented, but the signs were all there. As two Black men who are deep into this industry,
we had a feeling Jimi went through an identity crisis and a personal backlash against the
mainstream part of himself. So, finding a way to present that to Janie with an acute level of
accuracy was pretty tough!
What sparked your interest in joining this graphic novel with Janie?
I think delving into Jimi’s more rebellious side, despite how we all feel about him. I am currently
going through a professional and personal transition in my life and career that are similar where
my entire style and who I work with is changing. And it can be a very terrifying risk where I can
lose a lot of financial opportunities. But, I keep my integrity and happiness. So, discovering Jimi
went through something similar lit a spark in me.
For fans of space opera and science fiction, what is the overarching theme that you intend to
convey through your writing in this novel?
To never settle. That getting too comfortable(even in your science-fiction universe) is the
enemy of challenging yourself for something more. Despite what conventions may feel
overwhelming, it’s a reminder to dream of who you can be next.
DJ BEN HA MEEN:
How did you approach tackling this graphic novel? Also, what can fans expect from your
contribution?
My approach to this graphic novel was similar to other works that I have written, with the
added caveat that this is my first graphic novel. As a lifelong comic book fan, I did my best to
write the type of book that would interest and excite me, as well as creating something that I
feel fills a void in the graphic novel world.
I think that fans can expect the same things that I try to bring to anything I create, which is work
that will entertain and enlighten you, and hopefully expose you to viewpoints you may have not
considered before you read the graphic novel.
In a previous post on X, you expressed pride in this graphic novel. Can you elaborate on the
ideas and themes explored within it?
We did our best to pack this graphic novel with layers and themes that are expressed through
our main characters’ journeys in the story. Some of the main ones that readers will pick up on
are the constant need for a person to redefine themselves, the battle between art and
commerce, is there a correct approach to fighting facism, and much more.
One of the many reasons that I take such pride in this work is that Mellow and I set out to tell
an ultra Black Cosmic Science Fiction Musical Graphic Novel. I think that not only did we do
that, with the aid of our incredible artists, we have told a beautiful and timeless adventure that
can be appreciated by anyone, fans of Jimi Hendrix or not.
What does science fiction mean to you?
Science fiction has been one of the driving forces of my life, from the first time I saw Star Wars
as a child. I can’t imagine a world without science fiction, as to me it is how we help to create
and define not only our future, but our present reality. Star Trek, for example, envisioned many
current day technologies over fifty years ago, but perhaps the biggest contribution the show
has made is how it helped to break boundaries and eliminate ignorance in our present time.
The book was released on August 27 by Titan Comics! Get your copy now on
Amazon or Kindle!