The ’90s were exciting times for comic book readers. There were an endless amount of titles flowing from burgeoning comic book companies which were following the lead of companies like Image, who were poised to challenge the big 2 comic publishers. Unnoticed by some was AMARA. With books such as The Ebony Warrior, Heru Son of Ausar, and our next independent creator’s book Purge. These books are becoming the standard-bearers for the black comic movement. A veteran of the industry, let’s meet Roosevelt Pitts.
- Introduce yourself for our readers.
I’m a twenty-year veteran author, designer, publisher, and entrepreneur. I’m the owner of AMARA Inc an innovative company created to produce and distribute ethnic superhero comic books and media to fill the void left by the lack of positive African American heroes in the marketplace.
AMARA wants to be the voice of African Americans in the comic book industry and animation. A majority of the comic companies portray Black heroes as sidekicks, minor characters, or ex-cons. AMARA plans to make the Black hero a dominant force within its products. AMARA feels responsible to give the comic book market positive Black heroes.
I owned my first comic book publishing company at age 22. I’ve been recognized for my accomplishments and excellence as a publisher by Newsweek, USA Today, Business North Carolina, Fox News, and Entertainment Tonight. My experience includes all aspects of advertising, promotions, direct mail, writing, talent management, creative development, design, and publishing are used as I direct the multidimensional concept…“Purge” among numerous other characters in the superhero genre.
In addition, I’m the proud father of five children ages 8 to 17 that continue to inspire me to create characters that represent them and people of color worldwide.
Who were your early influences?
My early influences are far and wide from numerous writers and artists across the creative spectrum. If I had to list a few, it would begin with Mshindo Kuumba, who I’ve worked with on numerous projects, Purge being one of the longest. Others would include Billy Graham, Christopher Priest, Grey Williamson, Larry Stroman, Brian Stelfreeze, Jason Pearson, Neil Gaiman Dwayne Mcduffie, and Reginald Hudlin.
What project are you currently working on?
I am currently working on Purge: Past Unspoken – A New Direction. Purge is on the fast lane to a reemergence under the KID imprint with a revamped look and story to capture the attention of fans new and old. To find out more visit this link to read our free preview. ? We estimate the release of our first issue in August of 2016 with a Kickstarter campaign to soon follow. Visit our Facebook page here.
What books did you collect or read growing up?
It’s no surprise that the majority of my reading encompasses Marvel and DC comics. Most of my collection consists of titles such as Black Panther, Black Lightning, and Powerman. Simply, I looked for comics featuring characters that resembled me. I was and still am a big fan of the vintage Superman comics of the ’70s and ’80s. Outside of comics, I read a plethora of sci-fi novels by Octavia Butler such as the Kindred which is one of my all-time favorites and novels by Isaac Asimov.
Who do you think are the top five black superheroes out there and why?
That is always a tough one to answer. Over the years in my opinion our black heroes have changed their focus to the inclusion of everyone in the name of diversity rather than uplifting people of color and addressing issues that surround us. With that being said, here are my top five black heroes, excluding Purge of course. 1. Black Panther, 2. Anikulapo, 3. Powerknights, 4. Vegas Baby and WillPower. The reason I chose those among others is that they represent strong black male leads who unapologetically seek to express the best black culture has to offer from the past, present into future.
If you could rewrite any character out there who would it be and why?
I would be honored to rewrite and revamp Olmec’s SunMan character. I believe the character never fully reached its potential and has so many undeveloped storylines. It also explores our great relationship with the sun and how melanin truly has power.
Given the success of books like Concrete Park and Ajala: A Series of Adventures, what other books do you see having mainstream appeal?
There are three books that strike me as having great mainstream appeal. 1. Exo A futuristic African Superhero, 2. Grey Williamson’s Val-Mar Prince of the Damned and 3. Vince Whites’ Will Power.
Which medium do you think holds the most success for Indy creators, Webcomics or the traditional print books?
I believe both can coexist and be successful for indie creators. The way I see it, depending on webcomics to be the only source for reading goes dark if there is no WIFI. Having a printed book will never go out of style.
If there were anything you would say to someone looking to get into the comic industry; especially a person of color; what would it be?
Do your homework, especially if you seek to self-publish. Be aware and expect to work hard but also work smart. Understanding the benefits of social media and how to navigate them is a must to reach your audience. Also, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone to establish your brand. That could include designing your website, or minor video production for example.
Is there anyone, in particular, you would like to work with on a book?
Now that list is a mile long. I would choose Jason Pearson. I’ve had a Purge/Body Bags story in my head for years.
What is the biggest obstacle that Indy creators must overcome to be taken seriously alongside mainstream companies like Marvel and DC Comics?
Not to create derivatives of Marvel and DC Comics characters and to be consistent with their output of title(s) if all possible. Goes without saying that quality must be the end goal.
Why do you think it’s so hard for Indy creators to get mainstream coverage?
I believe years ago, was because Indy creators didn’t have the deep pockets to hire P.R. firms to rep them. However, with social media, it’s a bit easier to garner mainstream coverage by creating and nurturing grass root support.
Name three independent books that you would like to see as movies.
That is an easy one. 1. Purge (That shouldn’t be a surprise lol) 2. Will Power and 3. Body Bags by Jason Pearson.
Why do you think it’s important to have Black Superheroes?
Having black superheroes not only uplifts people of color, who rarely see themselves as lead protagonists who save the day, but it changes the landscape of how other races view us. We have so much rich history of accomplishments that are not encompassed in slavery stories and narratives. We are more than that and have given so much to the development of the U.S. and the world through our inventions and innovations. We have been heroes since the beginning of time as the first people on this planet. It needs to be taught with pride and truth and if need be told from a vantage point of a superhero of color.