IHEARTCOMIX: Two Decades of Pop Culture Brilliance
For 20 years, IHEARTCOMIX has been an electrifying force in Los Angeles’ music and arts landscape, merging underground energy with mainstream appeal in a way few others have. Founded by DJ and cultural visionary Franki Chan, IHEARTCOMIX started as a small record label with big dreams, quickly becoming a hub for LA’s indie music, electronic beats, and comic-inspired visuals. Their mission is to bring music, art, and culture together in innovative ways that resonate with the city’s ever-evolving creative scene.
From launching iconic parties to curating multi-sensory experiences, IHEARTCOMIX has continually blurred the lines between music, art, and pop culture. And this year, they marked their 20th anniversary in classic IHEARTCOMIX style, complete with a rare Interstella 5555 screening and a gala that had everyone buzzing.
A Look Back: IHEARTCOMIX’s Legacy and Evolution
Launched in the early 2000s, IHEARTCOMIX quickly gained traction for its out-of-the-box approach to live music and event production. The brand originally operated as a record label, signing indie acts like The Toxic Avenger, who found a unique home within LA’s burgeoning electronic scene. But it wasn’t long before IHEARTCOMIX expanded, launching events that would become legendary among local music lovers.
Their groundbreaking “Check Yo’ Ponytail” series, for instance, became a staple in the underground scene, blending hip-hop, indie, and electronic music in a way that felt fresh and exciting. Over the years, IHEARTCOMIX hosted a range of unforgettable events, from the high-energy Mad Decent Block Party collabs to the more intimate, art-forward Adult Swim Festival. Their relentless dedication to the music community and their ability to attract big names while championing emerging talent has made IHEARTCOMIX a beloved cultural fixture.
Behind the scenes, Franki Chan has been the driving force, known not only for his ear for talent but also for his eye for design and atmosphere. He’s curated unforgettable lineups and experiences, working alongside talented collaborators like DJ and designer The Cobrasnake and party connoisseur The Dare, who headlined their Gala (more on this later). Together, they’ve crafted a brand that feels authentically LA, one that thrives on cultural intersections and dares to push boundaries.
Daft Punk’s Interstella 5555: A Rare Screening and Cultural Moment
Kicking off their 20th-anniversary celebrations, IHEARTCOMIX hosted something truly remarkable: a screening of Daft Punk’s legendary animated film Interstella 5555. Held at the historic United Artists Theatre—a venue with its own star-studded legacy, once owned by Hollywood icons Charlie Chaplin, Douglas Fairbanks, Mary Pickford, and D.W. Griffith—this event was a rare treat for die-hard Daft Punk fans and newcomers alike. Attendees were invited to revisit the French robot duo’s 2003 masterpiece, a film that fuses stunning anime visuals with Daft Punk’s iconic tracks, weaving a story of music, fame, and the fight for freedom. Sharing the experience with a crowd of fans in 2024 felt communal, celebrating a project that defined an era of electronic music and still resonates today.
What made the night even more unforgettable was the reunion of Daft Punk’s longtime manager, Cédric Hervet and creative director, Pedro Winter, who shared behind-the-scenes stories and insights about the duo’s creative process. The intimate Q&A that followed allowed fans a rare glimpse into the cultural phenomenon, highlighting the profound legacy Daft Punk left behind.
After the screening, Busy P—who also heads the iconic French label Ed Banger Records—turned the theater’s lobby into a dance floor. From a second-floor DJ booth, he played an electric set to a packed crowd, which included local and international artists such as Reggie Watts and the French DJ, Madeon, who joined the party behind the DJ booth. The energy was palpable, as fans and friends alike reveled in the music, bringing an unforgettable close to a night that celebrated not only Daft Punk’s legacy but also IHEARTCOMIX’s lasting influence on the music and art scenes.
The Gala: A Night To Remember
The same week on that Thursday, IHEARTCOMIX hosted a gala that brought together a who’s who of LA’s music, fashion, and art communities. The event was more than just a party—it was a celebration of everything IHEARTCOMIX has contributed to LA’s cultural scene. Held at the newly renovated venue, The Bellwether, the gala featured live performances, art installations, performances by Nation of Language, Yo Gabba Gabba!, and the rising band FCUKERS to name a few. The celebration was hosted by Reggie Watts who energized the crowd between sets with his funny and interesting sets, The Dare, and a cameo set from Boys Noize.
The guest list was packed with industry veterans, rising stars, and longtime collaborators gathering to honor the brand’s legacy. Notable attendees like What So Not, Geneva Jacuzzi, Bonobo, and Warpaint’s Jenny Lindberg gathered to honor IHEARTCOMIX’s legacy.
From classic tracks that transported attendees back to the early days of “Check Yo’ Ponytail” to cutting-edge sounds that reflect today’s music landscape, the evening was an immersive journey through IHEARTCOMIX’s evolution. The gala also featured a curated display of rare memorabilia from past events, offering a nostalgic glimpse into some of the brand’s most iconic moments. Adding to the fun, a lively karaoke section invited attendees to take turns singing their favorite tunes, creating an interactive and playful atmosphere that perfectly captured the spirit of IHEARTCOMIX.
Looking Ahead: IHEARTCOMIX’s Ever-Expanding Legacy
Twenty years in, IHEARTCOMIX is still pushing the envelope, proving that their blend of music, art, and culture is as relevant now as ever. With plans for new projects and partnerships on the horizon, Franki Chan and his team are set to continue their reign as tastemakers in LA and beyond. Whether it’s through future collaborations or more genre-blending events, IHEARTCOMIX remains a force to be reckoned with in the music world.
As the night drew to a close, it was clear that IHEARTCOMIX has not only survived but thrived in an industry that’s constantly changing. The gala wasn’t just a celebration of the past; it was a nod to the future, a testament to the power of music, community, and the creative spirit that drives LA forward.
Follow & Connect w/ IHEARTCOMIX @
Instagram | X | YouTube | TikTok | Website
Written by Eric B. Thornton | Edit by Bernadette