Thursday, August 30, 2007

All inhibitions out the window: Part 2 (edited)

[If you would like to see Part 1, click here.]


A lot of people are afraid to say what they want. That's why they don't get what they want. -- Madonna



Can you believe I quoted Madonna? I have a love/hate relationship with Madonna and her actions. I pretty much can't stand anything she's done post her Erotica album, "The Girlie Show Tour". But her quote highlights the point I need to make in this post. And it sort of parlays into another point-- so bear with me in this verbose post.

I've come to a realization that "I don't care anymore." My goal as a standup comic is not simply shock value (i.e. Howard Stern, Sarah Silverman) but to teach, to open horizons, to offer new perspectives, and to force you (yes, you, the audience member, the blog reader, you) to finally (to use a trite phrase) think "outside of the box." This all may be construed as making you uncomfortable. Yeah, are you squirming in your seat, yet? Well, hang tight!

Change is the bane of many a person's existence. I, for one, revel in it. I like to be challenged, travel to new places, speak to different and interesting people, and hear and learn about new and innovative ideas. (Could I have used the word "and" any more?)

My motivation is to make you (the audience member) feel a little uncomfortable. To squirm in your seat--to have you go home after the show and, dare I say it, THINK!

So now I said it! Are you happy Madonna? I wrote it. I'm not afraid to say it. It's documented. It's now in the comedy ether! It's floating through the universe. It will happen!

Overall, I feel comedians are too passive. I mean, yeah, they get on stage and speak (that's fairly active). But they use comedy, the medium, simply to make people laugh.

To me that's boring. I think there should be more behind it.

Why not make people laugh AND have them go home thinking about what was said? Why not have a p.o.v. and express it?

I'm not saying it hasn't been done ever. But as of late, I haven't seen it.

The Daily Show does it everyday. However, I don't think The Daily Show steers their viewers one way or another. There's no bias with The Daily Show, which I believe is safe and passive. The Daily Show, like high school and college, should teach their viewers to critically think. I know that if someone rails against my comedy, at least they're thinking. At least they took the time to develop an opinion. I think the opposite reaction, eating up the message passively, is exactly what George Orwell was profiling in 1984 and Animal Farm.

In the world of Info-tainment, standup comedians are the ideal denizens. They can entertain people AND have them think, perhaps even motivate!

So let me tie this back to Madonna. Madonna brought sex to the forefront via music and via her performances. All her antics were personal and direct affronts to several cultures and people. And she changed the way people saw women---as smart, powerful, sexual beings. That I dig!

Kabbalah childrens books-- I don't dig. (But that's for another post.)

Comedians, now and have always been, in the perfect position to do a complete overhaul in entertainment and in society.

We are the mavericks, the leaders, the harbingers, the forerunners.

We are the barometers of society.

* * *


Recently, I was approached in a NYC subway by a man from Michigan. He was perhaps in his late 40s, early 50s and white. He needed directions. And me, being the opportunistic deipnosophist I am, happily gave them to him--but not without some form of compensation. Eventually, after he digested my directions, we sat down together to wait for the next train. I think to myself, "Take advantage of this situation to conduct an experiment."

Now I must let you know that I'm quite the eager conversationalist. And I'm ready to carry on with anybody who approaches, sometimes even against their will. Concerning all impromptu public encounters, I carefully select my words when speaking, glancing furtively at my listener always keeping him in mind while running my mouth. I'm very self aware during all of my conversations--all five senses overlapping and receiving signals. I'm forever taking into account the state of my listener. And I would my babbling as staccato--rambling but strategically punctuated with comfortable silences.

Now, I don't know Michigan. I'm not familiar--I've never been. But I have heard how down right conservative, highly catholic, and basically racist it is, from both black and white residents (former and current). (If you don't believe me, Detriot, MI is noted in the US Census as "the most racially segregated region in the country".

I do know about the ethnic makeup the distinct ethnic enclaves, and the vast, vast, vast, cultural segregation that takes place (i.e. Ann Arbor, Detroit, Northern Michigan.) I believe the Roman Catholicism plays a big role in the segregation. It's a highly Roman Catholic state.

And me, being the upstart I am, broached upon this controversial and undoubtedly uncomfortable topic with this man. A Thai girlfriend of mine in medical school mentioned that she has another East Indian friend who is currently living in Northern Michigan--truly a "sticking out like a sore thumb" situation.

I then recounted the story my Thai friend told me, about the East Indian's life in Northern Michigan, to this man. In a very matter of fact sense, he didn't really have an opinion. He did agree it was very Roman Catholic state and he talked a bit about how homogeneous it is in Northern Michigan. But he clearly didn't want to venture into any other avenues, where the conversation easily could have traveled in.

I even said the word, "racist." Obviously a word white people don't want to hear, partly because it's a heated word that creates controversy. And maybe because it's a slight bit accusatory. But I was tempted. I truly wanted to see how he would react.

Why aren't white people willing to say, "Yeah, that's racist area."? Or "Those are racist people."? Or, "Someone who is not white or Roman Catholic might have a hard time living there."? Why is that so hard to for white people admit? And remember that I'm super aware--of both his movements, and my tone. I made sure NOT to sound accusatory. Trust me. I was very innocuous and Seinfeld-ian about it: Why is it so hard to admit? Granted this conversation lasted a total of 3.5 mins. It was indeed long enough to get to the meat of the matter. He deftly avoided it and train finally arrived. We went our separate ways.

Why is it so hard for white people to admit?

I, for one, know that I get special treatment for being a woman, mainly from men, more specifically black men. I'm attractive, but I'm not THAT attractive. I rank maybe a 6.43 out of 10. (.43 instead of .5 because I don't wear my hair down as often as I should--and hence I get points docked.) But either way, I know I will always get a discount at the local pizza shoppe if I flirt with the manager, or if I wear a skirt that day. That is a form of privilege that I'm willing to admit to receiving. That's where "Ladies Nights" at clubs stem from. And within the comedy scene, women are catered to because there are so few of us. But I wouldn't receive that privilege, if I were not a woman. AND I'm willing to admit it. I acknowledge that!

Anyway, regarding the Michigan Man:
my main objective in this conversation was to get him thinking. After all, he's visiting New York, a seemingly diverse "melting pot." And he's riding the subway, which is what a lot of tourists skillfully avoid because of NYC folklore revolving around gangs. And he had the balls to approach me, a black female. He can't be THAT racist. Perhaps, he isn't at all.

With regards to the words "racist" and "nigger", I feel like the "R" word incites more feeling than the "N" word when used in front of white people. I think the "R-word" is the white person's "N-word"--the word that gets them all pent up and bothered. Calling a white person the "R" word seems to be an egregious and offensive act.

Understandable.

Who would not be offended by either term?

- Someone who is.
- Someone who isn't.

Here's a scenario:
You call someone a racist. There are two outcomes:

1.) The accused is a racist and is proud of it, but is wise enough not to say anything--and doesn't.

2.) Or he isn't racist, knows he isn't, and still doesn't say anything.

It's the latter, the fake racists, that I have a problem with. I assume this man fell into the latter category.

So why not say something? Again, it was a short amount of time, I am a stranger, and maybe his personality doesn't warrant discussing "hot button issues" with upstart comedians. Perhaps, that's the way he was raised.

But I really do feel more white people have a duty to welcome conversations like the one mentioned above. And also they should feel comfortable saying, "Yeah, I'm white and privileged because of it." Now where they go in the conversation after that is up to them. But I feel the first step to ending racism is to admit it, observe it, be conscious of it, and ideally work towards leveling it off. Of course, there's no incentive to someone losing power--losing privilege.

And also, if you're really not racist, then why not just come out and say it? Or make mention of it. Why can't you admit that perhaps a member of your family or other folks in your circle are--but you aren't. You're enlightened.

For someone to say, "Yeah, I'm a racist," at least you know they're bastards and they're being honest about it. They're basically nodding their heads and saying "Yes, I subscribe to that ideology." (Although, they probably wouldn't say it with such grace and eloquence.)

So that's why I feel 80% of the world is racist. Secretly racist, by not willing to say what's really on their mind.

Same goes with the N-word amongst blacks. I haven't figured out if I care enough about the word. I am in that minority that the term is directed. But I don't care because I know I'm not one. So I don't get offended when the word is used even when directed at me and coming out of non-black's mouth.

I invite your thoughts...Please comment...and send this article to friends...and invite them to comment.


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Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Women in Comedy: Kathy Griffin


She's rude. She's crude. Shameless is her thing. She makes no apologies. She's my inspiration. She has integrity in being shameless--does that make sense?

Her name is: Kathy Griffin.

Kathy's thing: Dissing and Dishing on celebrities.

Still have no idea who she is? Maybe this will help.

Or perhaps videos of her standup comedy might ring a bell:

[ Kathy Griffin on Ann Coulter | Kathy Griffin on Ryan Seacrest | Two Strong Black Women: Streisand & Oprah | Kathy Griffin on Whitney Houston | Kathy Griffin on the Catholics | Kathy on "The View" ]

Kathy first started her career in Improv Theater before she moved into standup comedy. She has appeared on every NBC TV show since the mid-90s. She then finally landed the role of "Vicki Groener" on the sitcom, Suddenly Susan (1996-2000), taping 92 episodes.

Finally, Bravo cable network gave her her own show, called "My Life on The D-List", a tongue-in-cheek reality TV series documenting the life of Kathy Griffin. The show's name derives from Kathy's struggle to climb up from obscurity and out of the so-called bottom ranks of Hollywood (aka: "The D-list") into stardom.

Sound like anyone familiar?

She's an interesting person and I find her intriguing because she doesn't hold back. She comes in a small package (5'4"), but she's fiery and takes no prisoners. (And I like that she has her own special following she affectionately names, "the gays.")

If you're still not familiar, but would like to immerse yourself in the world of Kathy, there should be more than enough content here to keep you busy for the next 24 hours:

[Official Site | Wikipedia | Int'l Movie Database | Comedy Central ]

My Life on the D-list:
[ Int'l Movie Database | Wikipedia ]

Interview with Kathy:
[ AskMen.com Interview ]

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Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Blogger buddy Interview: Raffi of citiZENMINDful


To continue with our series of interviewing fellow bloggers, we caught up with Raffi of citiZENMINDful. He is a So-Cal born and raised Armenian-American with a flair for the arts. He is truly a Renaissance Man in the making. Fluent in three languages and working on being fluent in another, he is a cooking maven, a musician, and a pop culture connoisseur. Oh, and wait, let me not forget. Did I mention he's a medical doctor?!?! And yeah, ladies, he's single!

... i felt i had much growing to do to become the best version of myself....

Quest: Why did you start blogging? When did the blogging bug bite? Why blogging? Why post your thoughts to the public?

Raffi: after reading the book Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind by Shunryu Suzuki, i began a spiritual journey and quest for enlightenment. i actually practice armenian orthodoxy, but felt i had much growing to do to become the best version of myself. i'd had exposure to blogs mostly through myspace, but also through friends who'd post pics, little blurbs, and miscellaneous garbage. i soon found blogging was simply another channel to utilize to obtain and share spiritual meals to grow. it helped me rekindle my spiritual flames, while re-immersing myself in my religious upbringing. with blogging i found there were other sites with similar m.o.'s and themes and we encouraged each other and improved the blog environment bit by bit for the time. through prolific posts, a blog gains an identity of its own and others become aware of your personality, quirks, and even your current life situation. it's almost a peek into someone's diary or daily journal (not that i'd ever keep one ;), which allows complete strangers to get to know you and the thoughts that make your being. even with the anonymity, one can almost deduce through experience what each bloggers "blackbox" formula will result in when given an input.

... life is already serious enough. we all need a place to let go and be ourselves....



Quest: Give us the background behind the name of your blog. Why did you choose that particular name?

Raffi: the book i mentioned above contained the word 'zen mind', so i added the prefix 'citi-' and suffix '-ful' and whallah... citiZENMINDful was born. often, i refer to myself as "this citiZEN" and hope to have other citiZENs across the world.

Quest: Give us the background behind the name, "Raffi." Why did you choose that name?

Raffi: I didn't. That's my name...Raffi.

Quest: Oh. Okay. (pause) The first post always seems to be the defining moment of any blog. Your blog mentions a lot of New Agey hoopla. Explain that.

Raffi: my "sacrificial blog virgin" post numero uno can be summed up to the disclaimer that 'i'm doing this for myself'. i mention i have no interest in others' interpretation and/or opinions of my bloggage. today, that is not completely true, but i do write whatever i feel is important to me for the time being. my first post also refers to Bruce Lee and his legendary quote, "having no way as the way, having no limitation as your limitation"... the ultimate dualistic existence. that encompasses the general gist of my blog agenda: open/closed to anything/nothing/"other-thing". it may sound transcendental, existential, etc. but in the end it's just about being open-minded, genuine, and innovative.

...laughter is medicine....


Quest: So you're a California native blogging in NYC? Plus, you're a doctor! What do you plan on contributing to the blogosphere?

Raffi: diversity, enlightenment, and entertainment

Quest: As much as you speak/write about your spiritual goals, your blog also has a comedic bend. Do you think you're funny?

Raffi: think? i don't think.... i know :) as i mentioned, my blog initially addressed spirituality with a zen spin. however, i always believed in being myself and as i began commenting on others blogs and cranked out my tasteful/distasteful cool/crude comedy/sarcasm, people started realizing that i wasn't some monk or spirit zealot. life is already serious enough. we all need a place to let go and be ourselves. soon my posts began embarking on more diverse paths and evolved to its current flavor, contributing to my overall blog personality... my real one.

Quest: Were you the one crackin' jokes in medical school? College? High school?

Raffi: always. always. always. of course, with a little help by my friends.

Quest: Were you the class clown?

Raffi: not THE clown, but i did occasionally participate in the role.

Quest: Does comedy play a role in your life, especially now working in the dire straits that is typical in the hospital environment?

Raffi: like i said, life is already serious enough, so i can't always take myself seriously. i enjoy the good laugh. i've always been intrigued by wit.

Quest: You mention karma quite a bit on your blog. What goes around, comes around, etc. Do you think comedy has anything to do with karma?

Raffi: i'm assuming you're referring to talking isht on stage coming back to haunt you? if so, comedy is a dynamic all its own. but for the most part, i feel karma is fed into through intention. if you intend to put people down to hurt them, it is likely one day that will come back to bite you in the a$$.

Quest: Clearly you have a dark side, but you don't let that overtake you. Where's the humor in that?

Raffi: dark side? are you referring to my stormtrooper suit? :) sometimes i get frustrated with the most trivial of things or the world for that matter. when i vent these baffling and mind-wretching thoughts and feelings onto a digital canvas, i feel better. plus the comments make it all the more interesting. overall i'm a good person with a good heart. i'd never do anything deliberately to hurt anyone. i guess that's why i chose to pursue my profession.

... i'm straight sexy....

Quest: I sense a little bit of tension in your blog. Perhaps a massage will do? Would you say that you're an angry bloke?

Raffi: are you offering? i'm a sucker for massages. anger is normal, rage is abnormal. i feel it's normal to be able to express your feelings openly. it's unhealthy to mask them and display the watered-down version for the public. this is not to say i'm an angry person. most people characterize me as laidback and real.

Quest: You mentioned this previously in your blog, but would you mind recounting the eerie story of your encounter with the older indian gentleman who approached you while you were sauntering in the Bronx? Looking back on that, what do you think you learned from that encounter?

Raffi: the eyes are the portals to our soul. i see [the indian gentleman] from time to time, but i think he's a little out there. however, that encounter gives me chills to this day. because [on that particular day] i really was working on my spirit skills and this man picked up on them as if he were the detector for such phenomena. weird!

Quest: You have a quote on your blog, "when i play music, time ceases to exist, thoughts are let free, and i feel truly at peace. i've been told that is "being in the moment". Could you say the same thing about, say, a good laugh or good conversation?

Raffi: absolutely. when engaged in any activity, may it be playing music or sports, eating, having sex, working (when totally involved), etc. and, yes, even a deep conversation or laugh. i mentioned this once in a post: remember as a teenager talking on the phone for like four hours to a friend (usually the opposite sex) and when asked by a parent what we spoke about for four hours, we reply "nothing". our being is usually completely committed to the task at hand and very little will interfere with the main focus. this is the act of being in the moment. being spiritually connected, for me, means being able to live in such a frame of time. i feel that is one of the values of comedy, it allows us to disconnect from the grind of life and to indulge in happiness and laughter. this can only help tone down the negative in our lives.

...for me, karma is based on intention.....



Quest: You mentioned in another post, "it goes without saying, if you can't say it nice, don't say it at all." I guess most people might actually say it, via standup comedy, letting out all their dirty laundry on stage. Do you think karma will play a role in a standup comedian's life, paying particular attention to what they let rip/let go on stage?

Raffi: for me, karma is based on intention. comedy can be tongue-n-cheek, but can also be done in a vindictive and hurtful manner. the latter deserves a fat smack of karma.

Quest: But then you say later on in the blog, "as long as it comes forth from the heart with truth, integrity, and virtue, we will be talking and walking in simultaneous harmony." So really if a comedian is true to their heart, they can't be punished for what they say on stage. What say you, Raffi?

Raffi: i think we all have to be true to ourselves. again, i think the intention/karma rule applies. like when michael richards (cosmo kramer) got crazy on stage, that was outta line. that's spiteful, hateful, evil speak, not comedy.

Quest: You seem to have some residual performance skills. Have you ever played live? Have you ever considered standup comedy?

Raffi: played live music, biggest crowd 200+. i've done various mc gigs. i'm very comfortable in front of crowds. never done comedy, but never say never ;)

Quest: You're really quite a naturist, hiking, watching what you eat? That's not funny at all.

Raffi: simply, "you are what you eat." seriously, you are. every cell in your body is synthesized from the products you put in your body.

Quest: Do you really own that StormTrooper suit from Star Wars? Is that you wearing it?

Raffi: what kinda question is that? of course it's me... not.

Quest: How long does it take you to compose a song? Lyrics? Music?

Raffi: music is very quick. i currently have 11 songs requiring lyrical augmentation. writing lyrics is the hardest part, even if a melody is figured out. funny that i can't come up with lyrics yet i can foam at the mouth while blogging.

Quest: Do you like to laugh?

Raffi: laughter is medicine

Quest: You have even inspired my post on the dreaded "laugh-too-much'er". Would you say denying someone from laughing is denying their true soul, even if it is halfway annoying?

Raffi: denying someone to laugh is cruel. but there is a certain etiquette involved in laughter. those super loud, obnoxious laughers, especially those that laugh inappropriately, should be shot up with some haldol. annoying laughter is okay as long as it doesn't violate the esoteric etiquette for laughter.

Quest: You currently post on two blogs: Vary Video and citiZENMINDful. Why do you need the two? The video blog (vblog) serves what purpose?

Raffi: embedding videos on my citiZEN site slows it down, so i created vary video. vary video is simply videos from various sources (other bloggers, emails, youtube, random, etc.) that caught my attention beyond what i consider common or usual.

Quest: You have a significant numbers of commenters in the 4 months time you've been blogging. What's your secret?

Raffi: i'm straight sexy

Quest: You say, "this citiZEN's mission every moment in life is to be the best version of myself" What part of yourself are you at this very moment?

Raffi: i'm exactly where i'm supposed to be. i strive everyday to work on my flaws and be a good person, aka the best version of myself.


Catch Raffi at either one of his two blogs:

citiZENMINDful: http://raffi5000.blogspot.com/

Vary Video: http://varyvideo.blogspot.com/

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Monday, August 27, 2007

Blogger buddy Interview: SassyAssy


Comedy, so far, has treated me well. And I am ever-fortunate for this blog. Not only has it given me the opportunity to actively share my comedic thoughts and goals with readers, but it has also allowed me to meet and interact with new blogger friends. Over the past few weeks, some of my blogger buddies have agreed to be interviewed about themselves and their blogs, and ideally how comedy plays a role in either or both.

This is the first of many interviews to come. Today we get a chance to chat with SassyAssy of the blog, A Glitter Whore Goes Shopping. (Yeah, what a daring name!) Read on to find out more about her:

Quest: Where are you from originally? Born, raised, etc.

I was born in New Jersey, but moved to the south when I was 3. I tend to have a split personality--one for the north and one for the south. It really shows in my accent.

Quest: You said "the south," as in "the southern United States" or "the southern Hemisphere," (i.e. Australia, Antarctica, etc.)

SassyAssy: The Southern United States

Quest: Explain the title of your blog: A Glitter Whore Goes Shopping.

SassyAssy: I worked in retail for a brief while right before I started this blog and I worked with several gay men. They loved my sense of style and would tease me about all my jewelry and girly accessories. They nicknamed me the Glitter Whore.

Quest: What is your profession? What do you do outside of blogging, to pay the bills?

SassyAssy: I am an accountant and entrepreneur to pay the bills.

Quest: When did the blogging bug bite? Why blogging? Why post it to the public?

SassyAssy: The blogging bug hit during the last failing years of my marriage in 2004. I had a friend who blogged and she recommended it as a way to relieve the stress. My ex had violated my privacy by reading my handwritten journal, so I was without that. I assumed an online identity and began to write.

I really did not think about blogging to the public as I never thought anyone but my friend would be interested enough to read it. I developed a small band of loyal readers. Eventually, I stopped writing to my original blog as the marriage went into rapid decline. On the day I moved into my apartment when I separated from the ex, I started up my current blog and I let my loyal readers know.


Quest: In relationships, do you eventually want something serious?

SassyAssy: I am not sure that I will ever marry again, but I do want a serious relationship with the right person.

Quest: Do you feel humor is necessary for a healthy and successful marriage?

SassyAssy: Humor is an essential ingredient for a healthy & successful life period!

Quest: What, to you, does a healthy and successful marriage consist of?

SassyAssy: Good communication, the ability to laugh at ourself and our mate, common interests to share as well not-so-common interests--interests which are independent of one another, to keep it fresh.

Quest: What do you want to see in the next relationship?

Well, I want love (of course) and fidelity and really awesome sex because all three of those things were missing in the marriage. I want someone who supports my career and education goals (I work for myself and I am beginning a Masters program) and someone who loves to travel.


Quest: Now your blog is mainly about your newfound singledom, being a "Sex in the City" type of gal in the south. What do you want to say to your female readers? What are communicating to the men?

SassyAssy: I don't know that I have a singular message to either men or women. I guess the bottom line is a person can survive [a divorce] by starting over. A person can have fun getting back into the dating scene. Life is an adventure to experience-- enjoy it!

Quest: In one of your posts you state, "Mama always said that a sense of humor was worth its weight in gold and thank god I have that in spades!" Care to elaborate on Mama's message?

SassyAssy: My mama said a sense of humor was necessary to keep your sanity--Amen to that!

Quest: You mentioned a dance partner in your very first post and throughout the blog. Dancing seems to be a major part of your life. Why dancing?

SassyAssy: I love to dance for fun. I dance as much as I can and sometimes I dance in ballroom competitions.

Quest: My favorite suggestion on your blog about marriage is Maybe we are not meant to be with just one person...marriage should have the option to be renewed at the end of each year. What are really trying to say about marriage?

SassyAssy: It just seems to me that marriage goes down hill once you get to know someone very well--once you live with them day in and day out. If you could just renew your vows like a lease, I think life would be so much simpler and maybe the marriage would not be taken for granted. I am certainly no expert though.

Quest: I love this quote on your blog, "I love a man who can make me laugh till I cry" Perhaps that's the key-- making sure somehow, somewhere you have comedy in your life.

SassyAssy: Absolutely!!!


Quest: Would you say that you're the funniest of your friends? Do you keep them in stitches?

SassyAssy: Most of my friends have a great sense of humor and I think we take turns being the funniest depending on the circumstances. My friends do say they call me to be cheered up because I do have such a dry, off-the-wall sense of humor. I do keep them in stitches.

Quest: Have you ever considered a career or small stint in standup comedy? I know I keep dropping hints in your comments section on your blog.

SassyAssy: I don't think I could do stand up....I am not sure I would be so humorous on demand.

Quest: Were you a class clown growing up? The life of the party?

SassyAssy: I have been a smart-ass my entire life. Sometimes I am the life of the party, but it really depends on the occasion and whether something strikes me as funny. Once I get on a roll, I can't stop.

Quest: Shopping through the personals for a mate seems a bit daunting, but you handle it with amazing dexterity. Do you recommend online dating? What advice do you have for anyone about to venture into online dating?

SassyAssy: If it weren't for online dating, I would not have gone on a single date in the last year. It is the only place I have met men. I am careful when I arrange to meet them and I always talk to them beforehand to get my comfort level. I also have a "devil-may-care" attitude. I figure you don't know about someone until you meet them face to face. I don't have a lot invested at that point so it doesn't matter if it is a bad date or not.

Quest: So of the many men that answer your ads, what numbers (percentage / ratio-wise) actually make it on a date with you?

SassyAssy: 1 out of 10

Quest: Do you think you need to have a sense of humor to enter the dating scene?

SassyAssy: YES! You cannot take the dating scene too seriously. I think people, especially women, take it too seriously and they end up being bitterly disappointed. I enjoy going on dates because it provides me with humorous stories to tell on my blog. I know the date is a dud if I cannot find a single thing to make fun of afterward.

Quest: On your blog you have a very tongue-in-cheek tribute to the men you dated whom didn't make the cut--"The Graveyard of Men". Explain that.

SassyAssy: I walked out of my apartment last Halloween and the neighbor had set up a mock graveyard as decoration for a party. I took a picture of it for some reason and then decided to make my own graveyard of men. I never use the real name of someone I date on my site. I always have a nickname for each man I go out with. I decided to post their name on a headstone as I kicked them to the curb. It was easier for people to keep up with the sometimes dizzying pace of my dating at a glance.

Quest: Any chance of bringing them back from the dead? Have any resurfaced?

SassyAssy: I have only resurrected one of them back from the dead for a brief blip in time. I won't make that mistake again. Several of them would like second chances, but once I move on, I keep on going. We broke up for a reason. I remember always keep that reason in mind.

Quest: I am disappointed to see that In your list of What you want in a man, "Excellent sense of humor," is only #8 on the list? Number #8?!?! For shame!

SassyAssy: I don't remember that list, but maybe I hadn't reached my quota of mojitos when I wrote it. Some men--no matter how funny--just ain't boyfriend material. One of the graveyard guys (Biker Dude) could make me laugh until I cried, but he just wasn't longterm material. I am guessing I wrote that list right after he broke up with me.

Quest: And good comedic dating stories that you'd like to fill us in on?

SassyAssy: My most recent dating disaster: I met Roberto online and we chatted via IM and phone. He was nice looking and he seemed to have a terrific personality. I drove 1.5 hours to meet him (I live in the south so that is not a long time to drive in southern time). He pulled up in a Jag and he was nice looking and very charming. He told me had a foot fetish as he tried to caress my toes in their sparkly high heels while we sat in Starbucks. I started to get some weird vibes, but despite this I went to dinner with him. When dinner was over I broke the news that I just did not think I wanted to see him again. He was not happy, but he seemed like he accepted this.
A few weeks later I get an IM from him telling me he wants to get to know me. My response: WHAT????

I typed back "Roberto, you already know me. We went on a date. I told you I would not go out with you again and you told me you were never speaking to me again." He typed back "I know you????"

Yeah, I am quite the psycho-magnet...always have been and I believe I always will be. Something about me brings the inner psycho out in men and women. I have been stalked by both. Seems some women really really want to be my best friend and don't take no for an answer.

Quest: Who is the latest squeeze in your life?

SassyAssy: I am currently seeing someone--a biologist. He has been a loyal fan since my first blog and when he broke up with his girlfriend this spring we finally met in person and have been seeing each other ever since. Obviously, I don't spend a lot of time talking about that since it is sooo awkward with him reading every word I type. It does make for some comedy as he is very scientific in his approach to life and I am more artistic in mine. He is very much a loner and I am a party person.

Quest: What activities are currently going on presently in your life? You earned your BBA, (which is the equivalent of a BA in the US). What are you up to next?

SassyAssy: I am very busy getting my 2nd business (also an accounting business but with a partner) off the ground. I just finished my BA in Business (or BBA) and I am getting ready to start my Masters in Forensic Accounting. I will be an accounting detective...I am already envisioning the new tv series: CSI: Accounting.

Thanks to SassyAssy for her riveting yet comedic portrayal of the dating scene in the south. Be sure to check out more of her dating antics on her blog.

SassyAssy blogs at: http://a-glitter-whore-goes-shopping.blogspot.com/

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Friday, August 24, 2007

Happy Birthday, Dave Chappelle!

...Happy Birthday, Dave!...



Simple post for a complex man! Everyone wish Mr. Chappelle a happy birthday. He is 34 today! He has accomplished so much at such a young age. My hero!



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Tuesday, August 21, 2007

Series: Comedy as it relates to Sex (Part 3 of ?)

7) Various Rates of speed, Rhythm, and Timing in the delivery

Everybody does it differently. We all have varying techniques and idiosyncrasies that make us unique as comedians. And this means it's not always going to go over well with every audience or every audience member. Not everyone fits perfectly together. ("Ouch! Can you slow it down!?!")

Sometimes we have the slow even toned delivery, (i.e. Stephen Wright). And then the fast high-pitched delivery (i.e. Chris Rock). Or even the up and down rollercoaster-like delivery (i.e. Jerry Seinfeld).

Either way, your delivery isn't always going to match with each and every audience member. Not every single audience member is going to be turned on by your sauntering, pacing, and lapping speeds. You may lose a few members in the process. But that's okay. This comedy thing is not a lock and key process. Your going for majority rules. Everyone is different. And that's okay. That's why they invented [Insert Your Punchline here].


8) Rite of Passage - Loss of Virginity

Everyone has that pinnacle moment the first time they get on stage. It's defined as when the virgin finally pops his/her comedy cherry.

Audience: Ouch!

Virginal Comedian: (soothing voice) It only hurts for a little bit. Stay with me.

Once you do it the first time, suddenly you're sprung. Your hormones are raging! (You think: Where did this come from?) It felt amazing for you. You were psyched that you even got the joke in there!

And now you're on a high. You can't believe you did that! You can't wait to tell all of your friends! You want to share with them every single detail.

Your mind becomes like a steel trap. Everyone remembers their first time! Every gasp, every nervous feeling you had in the pit of your stomach. And yet you still performed. Granted, it was 5 minutes--but you still got to perform.

And something happens to you--a chemical change. Hormones that once lay dormant are now kicking into high gear. Every time you see a well lit stage, with that one, tall, enticing microphone, you get all tingly. You start to notice microphones everywhere. Microphones and stages you never knew existed. You want it. You want them all. And you want to get your jokes out there as much as possible. Even if there's no commitment involved. Even if it's a one-time thing (see previous post on One Night Stands), you still want to take part.

Once you get that experience underneath your belt, you're a changed person. You did it! And you are willing to do anything to do it again! But you want the next time to be even better--for you and for the audience.

But the hardest part about that, is coaxing the audience into doing it again, after that awful first time. Sure it was good for you, but it was painful for them. What's their incentive?

Finding another audience that is willing to bear with you to work out your set is tough! A willing audience who is aware of your post-virginal, pre-well-practiced-stud phase. An audience wants you to be experienced. They want you to be comforting. Not hurky-jerky, like the first time. It becomes a practice in and of itself.

And time passes... You begin to wonder when you'll get on stage again. So much time has passed between the first time and the second, you begin to question yourself a comic. Are you good enough? Should you even be doing comedy? Nobody wants to be there with you. Should you just give up? Which leads us into our next metaphor...


9) Sympathy performance

Even if an audience consists of one member, it's still a show. It maybe less gratifying than before. But at least there's someone there. At least, there's another warm body. You're lucky you even got them to agree to it in the first place. In order for you to perform, in order for it to be considered a show, you gotta have an audience member.

If a tree falls, and no one's there to listen to your comedy, was the joke ever really funny in the first place? The same applies to sex. You need at least one person there for it to apply. Otherwise it's just self-pleasure, right?


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Monday, August 20, 2007

Series: Comedy as it relates to Sex (Part 2 of ?)

3) The buildup, and finally the release
Say the opposite scenario from #2 happens. So far you've taken the audience on a journey. It's been a little shaky--a bit of a roller-coaster ride. You were a bit nervous at first. But you caught your stride, your rhythm, and now you can feel the moment at the horizon. You're at the brink. You've been waiting all night for that one joke that will send the audience. The single solitary moment that will make the whole night worthwhile. You've been having an okay night and you're waiting for the exact moment when you finally, uh, well, can climax. But remember to get the audience there first, before you do so! (It's only polite.) It's the highlight of the evening, so to speak. And audiences finally gets there, standing-O, perhaps. And now it's time for your release. Bliss! Absolute bliss!


4) One night stands do apply
(If I need to explain this one, then you might want to find another blog.)

Fine! Fine! I'll explain it, dammit!

Most comedians, mainly experienced ones, will do a show unexpectedly at the drop of hat--no warning, no precursor, no subtly dropped hints. They just walk into a club, hop on stage, do a set, and get off---stage, I mean. But it's just one show. No more. It was a random deviation from the set plan. It was a good night. It went well. And there are no regrets. The audience is satisfied. You're feeling good about it! And you may never see that audience again, despite things going so well. So yes, in comedy, one night stands apply and are in fact encouraged. (Unless, there's a baby conceived, and in that case, you should be responsible and speak to your audience about that.) I'm disappointed in you! I can't believe you didn't use protection!


5) Compensation for services

You can pay for it, but paying for it is lot less satisfying than if you get it for free.

In New York city, it's very common to walk into a restaurant or bar and find a comedy show going on almost any night of the week. Most of the time it's in a back room. My point is that it's not difficult at all to find open mics and amateur comedy shows that are free. Mainly because the need for audience--real audience--versus a comic audience, as discussed in a previous post, is strong.

And sometimes, albeit sometimes, you will attend one of these weak open mic nights (because even I'll admit, as an amateur, we're not experienced and hence, not funny) and a surprise big time/headliner comic will do a little stagetime to work on their set. What do I mean by "big time"? Oh, I don't know perhaps, Chris Rock, Seinfeld, Dave Chappelle, oh, and I don't know perhaps... Grammy award winner, John Mayer! As of late, Chris Rock has been spotted at two of clubs I frequent, but unfortunately, due to my perfect timing, I am never there to witness his performance.


6) Sweaty palms, heavy panting, cries of ectsacy

Every time I take the stage, I'm a little bit nervous. And most comedians will admit to picking up the microphone and having it slip thorough their hands because of the sweaty buildup.

Believe it or not, every performer should be a bit nervous. (If you're not, you're on something and you might want to consider heading slowly back offstage before you hurt yourself or someone else.) If you do get the honor of playing a booked show in front of real paying audience, then you shouldn't feel so nervous that you're petrified. By then you should have worked out all your jokes and be comfortable with your routine.

Once you've gotten into the groove of things, that's when the magic happens. Ideally, the heavy panting and the cries of ectascy are a result of the delirious laughter from the audience members. The heavy panting is sometimes residual from a knee-slapper, post-a killer joke. And it's okay if the audience remains quiet, with heavy panting to break up the silence. (The audience sometimes need to recover from the last joke to prepare for another of its caliber. Trust me, in this case, silence is a good thing, for a comic. It means you've slayed and the audience isn't sure they can go for another round.) A good comic will notice this and bring the energy down a level, giving the audience a refractory period, if you get my double entendre. Thereby the recovery time can be shorter giving you more time for fun on stage.

Don't go! There's more Comedy and Sex, Part 3!

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Saturday, August 18, 2007

Series: Comedy as it relates to Sex (Part 1 of ?)


Hello, comedy fans! I'm sure you've been hoping for an infectious office forward--one you can pass around the office and laugh it up around the water cooler. So here it is! Have fun with it! Enjoy the weekend!

***

So far in my pursuit to achieve the highest honor in comedy-dom, I have found elements of comedy that echo and perhaps even mimic characteristics of sex. Wanna see? Here are my findings:

1) The late night booty call...

You're settled at home and of course the phone rings from the needy, beer-goggled friend with benefits. What is the benefit? This friend happens to be a very well-connected comedy buddy, who has an available spot on a show. The show needs you! They're begging for you!

Who's going to turn that down?

You're a comedian. You're goal is to get on stage as many times as possible. Still fuzzy on the connection? Re-Read the second sentence of this paragraph and instead insert the word "human" where "comedian" is, and insert "get some," where "on stage" is.

It's like day-old pizza--even when it's bad, it's still good.

Here's a funny anecdote:
To recount my experience with "the late night booty call," I got a call from a friend around 9:30pm at night. He said he had a spot for me on his stage show and that I had to get there lickety-split.

That's thirty minutes away. I'll be there in ten. --The Wolf

My mother likes to make the "unexpected" expected phone call to me at night. For two reasons: 1) To keep tabs on me as mother's always do 2) And because it's not-so unexpected because she's cheap. Wait, no. She likes to explain it as "economical," thereby taking advantage of free minutes after 9pm.

So when I didn't promptly answer after two rings, my mother, expecting me to be home, called the next day asking where I could possibly be so late at night. I was tight lipped about it. And she naturally assumed that I was out whoring myself to my non-existent/fictitious New York city boytoys.

You: Lucy, why not just tell her you're doing comedy?

Me: My goal with comedy is to keep it under wraps, until I can no longer keep it under wraps. For example: An appearance on David Letterman would prove very difficult to keep it under the lid.

So until then, I will answer my mother by saying, "Yes, I am running around NYC answering late night sex calls, a service I provide for those who have urgent sexual need." Imagine her surprise when she catches me on the Tonight Show, introduced by whoever replaces Leno--will it be, Conan?


2) Comedy can be a bit of a tease...

Sometimes you're not sure when you're going to "get some" from comedy. Sometimes you go into the club, thinking "This is going to be a surefire laugh riot. It's in the bag!" You know you went through all the steps:

i. You sweat over the jokes by writing and rewriting them.
ii. You then performed all over the city at various clubs every night over the next 6 months.
iii. You crafted. You honed. You worked out all the kinks.
iv. You studied structure, cadence, inflection, and timing.

And the final step...

v. You executed.

So the Big Night ensues. And this night, in particular, is special. Why? There are talent agents, managers, producers in the audience at this most exclusive comedy venue. (I know. I know. Exclusive? It sounds corny, but just go with me on this one.)

By now, you should have full control of your "performance" right? Because you've practiced, prepared, premeditated every single move.

Cardinal Rule: No two shows are ever the same.

Just remember the 5:30 show is completely different from the 7:30 show. -PCU

But even with all that preparation, you receive dismal results. What happened?!?!

My point is you can take comedy out for dinner, buy it an expensive gift, make it feel real special. And by the end of the night, you're left at the stoop wondering if your breath smelled or your pits were offensive. Where did you go wrong?

Would you like more comedy and sex, Part 2?

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Monday, August 13, 2007

Comedy Hero: Eddie Izzard


Eddie Izzard is some sort of mad genius. For those of you who haven't heard of him, I suggest you check out his comedy.

He does jokes in both French and English, folks! It has been said that you know you've truly mastered a language when you can tell a joke in that language. I think whomever wrote that neglected to include "culture" in the definition. There are many American-specific jokes that you can tell to a Brit crowd (i.e. same language), but that joke won't seem funny to that Brit crowd because it's missing that cultural tie-in. So I believe culture should be emphasized as well. And if you don't take my word for it, well you watch Mr. Izzard's take on it, right here.

...He's the David Bowie of comedy!...

And that means all the better for Mr. Izzard. (The French are a cynical bunch anyway. I mean they're the ones who popularized Existentialism--bitter b-st-rds!) ---I say this with much love. (I studied French for 8 years and lived there for a semester.)

Oh, by the way, did I tell you that Eddie does all of this IN DRAG!?!? Yeah! He's the David Bowie of comedy! I can't say enough about this guy.

Plus, Mr. Izzard has taken his comedy skills and morphed into a fine actor. FX cast him in the main role, Wayne Malloy, in the TV show, The Riches as father of a family of traveling conartists trying to start a life anew. Izzard works alongside another British actress (by way of Barbados), Minnie Driver.

Haven't seen his stand-up have you?

Here's a non-US website called Videocaffe that seems to debut all the best clips from "Eddie Izzard: Dressed to Kill". I don't know how long it'll be up. But if the link or website evaporates, please drop me an email [ standup101 AT GMAIL DOT com ] and I'll replace the link.

Eddie Izzard [Official Site | Wikipedia | Int'l Movie Database ]



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Friday, August 10, 2007

Sign up for the Email Newsletter


So you keep checking back. You keep having to re-write and re-paste that pesky URL into the address bar. You're curious, but you're just not willing to commit. Let me be your voice of reason. Let me be that calming voice in your head. Let me put your worries to rest.

In the great words of Susan Powter, "STOP THE INSANITY!"

And just sign-up for the email newsletter! =====>>>>

You know this blog provides good, solid, laugh-out-loud funny, and stimulating reading material--or else I would be out of a job.

So do yourself a favor and sign-up. And if you're still not willing to sign-up, then send your favorite comedy buddy friend your favorite post! (You do have a comedy buddy friend, right?) Just click on "email this" at the bottom of the entry. AND, you have the entire weekend to do this. Consider it a homework assignment!

The sooner you get signed up and spread the word, the sooner I can come to your town and perform for you and your peeps. (You know you want it!)

Thank you everyone who has left a comment on my page and/or signed up for the email newsletter. Your support is greatly appreciated! I am ever grateful!

Stay tuned for:

  • 7 Ways in which Comedy is like Sex

  • An Interview with ever-popular blogger, East Village Idiot

  • A Comedy Glossary Definition page (for those of you who juuuhhst don't quite "get it", yet.)


  • ... and of course

  • More of the crazy nonsense that goes on in this silly head of mine

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    Wednesday, August 8, 2007

    MetaBigotry in Comedy


    Whoa! Hold your horses! You said what Lucy? Bigotry? In comedy? Now you are crossing the line!

    Well, no. Actually, a lot of people have been using a form of meta-bigotry in comedy as far back as the 1970s. Here's a more extensive list of frequent users:

  • Archie Bunker, of All in the Family

  • Dave Chappelle, of Chappelle's Show

  • Sarah Silverman, of The Sarah Silverman Program,

  • Eric Cartman, of South Park

  • Ali-G, of Da Ali G Show

  • Borat

  • The Family Guy, created by former standup comic, Seth MacFarlane

  • Aaron McGruder, of The Boondocks fame.


  • DISCLAIMER to white people: If you haven't seen or read The Boondocks, from the bottom of my heart, Watch it! Read it! If you want to see racism end, then you'll do your duty by taking the time out to pay attention to the sage-like prophet that is McGruder. No one's around to judge you. It's just you and the computer. Pretend I'm Oprah, and this is my book club! Freaking pay attention! Okay! 'Nuff said. DISCLAIMER over. On to the next paragraph...

    ...meta-bigotry can look suspiciously like actual bigotry...


    Let's get down the nitty gritty definition:

    What is MetaBigotry? (Although, there is no official definition for it, I would encourage you to use the links provided to gain a better understanding.)

    Lucy's working definition (subject to change) is "a specific treatment of irony in comedy whereas racism is used as a punchline or central theme by hyperbolically pointing out potentially pejorative vicissitudes and idiosyncrasies designated to a specific culture."

    Yeah well, I tried. (Perhaps, you'll like this definition better.)

    Metabigotry in comedy, which I find to be the only medium where it is being used, seems to be only understood by the educated elite, whereby "the joke" and irony is appreciated. This more educated, more aware and worldly group, understands that "the joke" is only a mere reflection of aspects of a culture--the joke not being mistaken for representing an entire ethnic group. Unfortunately, I think this is where Metabigotry falls short.

    Why? Because "...meta-bigotry can look suspiciously like actual bigotry..." (a quote from Sam Anderson in his Slate article on Sarah Silverman).

    And it seems like a lot of people have an opinion on Metabigotry and its use:

  • an article by Alex Renton, writer from The Guardian (UK publication)


  • an article on Sarah Silverman by Terry Sawyer, writer from PopMatters (US publication)


  • Why do I have such a hard time with Metabigotry?

    Because it doesn't give the viewer/listener/audience member an undeniable litmus test as to what is prejudiced and bigoted within the joke. It doesn't let the viewer know which side of the joke to laugh about. It doesn't tell you, the reader, what it means to be a bigot. And perhaps that's an impossible task to designate and uphold.

    Don't mistake MetaBigotry for reverse racism. Metabigotry has a learning element that reverse racism is missing. It's that same learning element, that makes the use of Metabigotry dicey for any comedian. If you don't pick up on that element, then it might as well be just plain old bigotry.

    During my research, I came upon an article written by Tim Wise, a white anti-racist essayist, activist and lecturer. I like how he addresses the issue of reverse racism. Take a gander.

    In my previous post on Sarah Silverman, I explain that her comedy doesn't have any real agenda. It's mere shock value. Let me reiterate that I don't hate her. I don't admire her. I just--eh! Nothing. I'm just indifferent.

    How would I change the use of Metabigotry in my comedy?

    I do plan on using Metabigotry in my comedy. But I plan to add a disclaimer--a word of caution. I plan on adding that missing litmus test--that piece of hope that comedy could offer. I plan on pointing out the positivity within the comedy--a solution. I always felt that Dave Chappelle, Sarah Silverman, and the rest of the Metabigots (ewww, that almost sounds mean--but, remember according to definition it's not), were neglecting to point out and glorify that specific element. It's much easier to point fingers and say, "This is wrong with your culture! And watch how I dance all over it and make fun!" But it's much harder to develop a feasible solution.

    And this is what I plan on doing with my comedy--propose a solution.

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    Tuesday, August 7, 2007

    You da man!


    As a comedian, you have to know yourself. Know your movements. Know your voice. As a performer, comedy becomes a study of yourself. It becomes a narcissist's trade--not at bad as actors, but pretty damn close.

    ...I have always depended on the kindness of strangers...

    My problem is that I don't fawn over myself in the mirror. You'll never catch me checking out my reflection as I walk past a store front. The thought never occurs to me.

    You're thinking: Lucy, what about if there is spinach in your teeth? Or fresh gooey brain nuggets protruding from your skull? What do you do then?

    My answer is: Like Blanche DuBois, I have always depended on the kindness of strangers.

    And don't worry! I reciprocate! Even if I've known you for less than 5 secs, I'm the first to tell you that you have falafel residue on your cheek. I think it's only fair. Because I always follow the Golden Rule: Treat others as you want to be treated. That's gospel to me!

    The latest bit I'm hearing from comedians is that they record their performances to gain further information about themselves. One comedian told me that he never knew he swayed side-to-side before he saw himself on tape. Good to know, right? With that information, he quickly edited 'the sway' out of his performances.

    In this trade, you end up studying yourself, much like sports teams watch their gameday videos. You need to video tape yourself to watch what you look like on stage. You will learn so much just by watching your performances. You notice if you're a swayer, a pacer, a hide-behind-the-mic'er, a gaze-down-at-the-floor'er, or a look-out-at-the-audience'er (which is the best problem to have). You hear how many 'um's, 'uh's, 'ah's there are in your act. You gain a ton of information, you adjust your nuances and your performance, and ultimately you grow as a comedian.

    The one thing I've learned in my performances is that you have to be okay with silence. It's okay to have time and space between your jokes. It's okay to use that precious pause in between (and sometimes during) jokes. That silence builds confidence. You know all eyes are on you. I've been told time and time again, you need to own the stage. Not only do you own the stage, but you also have rented that microphone, and for that time being, you occupy that space. (Until the landlord gives you light and then you have to vacate!) Don't let the audience taunt you. Don't let the people offstage (managers, bookers, other comics, etc.) freak you out. You have to get into your head that you are "da man" (no offense, ladies).

    I heard about one comedian who purposely paced the stage---giant, giant steps. He would walk the perimeter of the stage and take his time before each joke. Each joke, of course, was a zinger and it killed. But in between each joke, he took about 15-30 secs. 30 seconds?!? That's a lifetime! (You can especially relate to this if you've ever been on stage or made a speech!) Imagine this guy just pacing--just walking, like he owned the stage--owned the performance. Of course, this guy was a huge football player type--I think he was black, not that that matters. But maybe it was easy for him to get into that "frame of mind." Whereas I, 137 lbs, post-NYC heatwave, have to learn to "own it."

    But maybe being scared isn't so bad. There seems to be a consensus amongst comedians that the best type of comedy stems from when you're scared. When your back is against the wall, you're cornered, and you have to perform in order to get out. That is when true comedy develops.

    Maybe that is the transition. Maybe that's the rite of passage. Where you go from scared fledgling to fiery phoenix. And that's why I have this blog--to document the inevitable ascent.

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    Friday, August 3, 2007

    Get to studying and do your comedy homework!


    I have been inspired, folks. I have been inspired by some slammin' comedy I saw last night at Brooklyn Comedy Company! [MySpace | Blog ]

    Slammin' I tell, ya!

    I even got a chance to speak with my new favorite comedian, Baron Vaughn. [His blog] (If you don't know, you better ask somebody!) The man is as sharp as a tack people! He's Chris Rock on steroids!

    Anyway, Baron was kind enough to give me homework for the weekend. He gave me a list of up-and-coming black comedians to pay attention to. These comedians are changing the face of black comedy! I'm proud to place their links here on my blog. Feast on these for the weekend! Tootle-loo!

    (In alphabetical order):

    - Hannibal Buress [ MySpace | MySpace Video | YouTube Video ]

    - Deon Cole [ MySpace | YouTube Video 1 | YouTube Video 2 ]

    - Dean Edwards (aka Darth Imperius)
    [ Official Site| MySpace | Wikipedia |
    YouTube | Carson Daly Clip ]

    - Roy Wood Junior [ MySpace ]

    - Dwayne Kennedy [Comedy Central | MySpace
    Video
    ]

    - Darryl Lenox [ MySpace ]

    - Vince Morris [Official Site |MySpace | MySpace TV ]

    - Dwayne Perkins [ MySpace | Video (animated) | Video (standup) ]

    - Jasper Redd [ Official Site | MySpace | Wikipedia | MySpace Video ]

    - Sherrod Small [ Comedy Cellar | YouTube | Int'l Movie Database | Wikipedia ]

    - Baratunde Thurston [MySpace | MySpace TV | MySpaceTV 2 ]


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    Thursday, August 2, 2007

    20 rough mins with Lucy... (audio)

    If you want to hear what it's like to "practice" comedy, this is a good set to listen to.




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    Wednesday, August 1, 2007