Rappin’ Max Robot (1986)
Written and Illustrated by graffiti artist Eric Orr (Self published, 1986)
In 1986, NY artist Eric Orr published the first issue of Rappin’ Max Robot. Orr had already made a name for himself as a graphic artist, and he self-distributed this 12 page pamphlet in record stores and comic shops around New York. His cartooning style is loose and energetic, taking cues from underground comics and graffiti art and creating something new and fresh in the process. (via Depthoffieldmagazine.com)
Notes
Released in 1986, Eric Orr’s “Rappin’ Robot” comic book, is widely regarded as the first hip hop comic book, capturing the essence of the burgeoning hip hop movement in the 1980s.
Created by South Bronx graffiti artist Eric Orr, “Rappin’ Robot” featured a robotic protagonist named Max who navigated the urban environment, engaging in rap battles, breakdancing, and other elements of hip hop culture. The art is very reminiscent of Dawud Anabwele’s Brother Man by incorporating graffiti-style character design, lettering and page layouts.
Real Street Value
“Rappin’ Robot” was a self-published zine with a limited print run. This scarcity has made it a highly sought-after collector’s item, with original issues valued at $3-5,000 on websites such as Sotheby’s and eBay.
The comic also includes original art by the world renowned artist Keith Herring, a friend of Orr’s, which has also increased the value of the book.
Because of it’s scarcity I consider this book to be a Black Comics Grail.
In researching this book I found a really good article on Eric Orr and his journey on Depthoffieldmagazine.com
