Archie: 1955 Showcases Teen Life In The Fledgling Rock & Roll Scene
by James Ferguson
After the success of Archie: 1941, publisher Archie Comics is taking another trip through time with Archie: 1955. Writers Mark Waid and Brian Augustyn are back, joined this time by artist Tom Grummett to show what life would be like for Archie Andrews and the gang if they were real teens in 1955. Inker Bob Smith, colorist Glenn Whitmore, and letterer Jack Morelli round out the creative team for the five-issue mini-series.
Co-Writer Mark Waid says:
As a boy who grew up in Tupelo, Mississippi, I’ve been a rock-origins aficionado my entire life. Archie: 1955 is my chance to visit that era I so love, and do it with an Archie spin. As with Archie: 1941, we’re very true to the time while telling a story in a modern way that’s exciting and dramatic. Using Archie as a lens through which to really examine the beginnings of rock ‘n’ roll is a blast.
Archie: 1955 debuts in September, following young Mr. Andrews on a quest for success in the fledglin rock & roll scene. When he proves to a local DJ that he’s got the talent for hip-shaking stardom, he begins an ascent to fame that will bring both triumph and tragedy.
Artist Tom Grummett added:
As a teen in high school, I had two ambitions: comic book artist and rock star. My guitar skills being what they were, rock star was pretty much off the table. It’s going to be a kick to explore what might have been through Archie and his friends, at the very birth of rock ‘n roll.
Archie: 1955 #1 will feature a main cover by Audrey Mok and variants by Jinky Coronado, Francesco Francavilla, Aaron Lopresti, and Pete Woods.
Co-Writer Brian Augustyn says:
This sweeping story will feature laughs and tears, music and drama, and all the pals and gals. Get with it, hep-cats!
I was a big fan of Archie: 1941 so I’m glad to see the publisher is revisiting the concept with a new time period. The first issue is set for release on September 18th, 2019.
