How to Become a Comedian Blog Series – Aspiring Comedian’s Checklist

In this article, , if you want to become a comedian, you must be familiar with the art form by watching hours and hours of stand up shows. You’ll quickly discover it’s a rollercoaster ride, yet it can be fun and rewarding if you don’t vomit.Stand-up comedy has long been a beloved form of entertainment, drawing in audiences from all walks of life. The beauty of stand-up is that it has the power to transcend barriers and bring people together through laughter.

Whether you’re a fan of classic comedians like George Carlin and Richard Pryor or prefer the fresh and unique perspectives of today’s rising stars Taylor Tomlinson or Matt Rife, the world of stand-up comedy always has room for more funny people.

Start by watching stand up shows. With streaming platforms like Youtube, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and more offering an abundance of stand-up comedy specials and TV shows, the selection is nearly endless. So, grab a tub of popcorn, sit back while you laugh and learn.

Youtube is always a quick go to for great stand up shows, clips, as well as long pieces. It’s a great source as you can find famous comedians along with up and coming, as well as no names who create their own channels. It’s fabulous as anyone can create their own fame if they have great material.

• Ali Siddiq – The Domino Effect
• Big Jay Oakerson – Dog Belly
• Joe List – Enough For Everybody
• Todd Barry – Domestic Shorthair
• Matteo Lane – Hair Plugs & Heartache
• Lewis Black – Tragically, I Need You
• Jay Larson – Sounds Like Bruce
• Kelsey Cook – The Hustler

Here are names and links to a good sampling of stand up shows:

• Andrew Santino – Cheeseburger
• Chris Rock – Selective Outrage
• Jared Freid- 37 and Single
• John Mulaney – Baby J
• Mark Normand – Soup to Nuts
• Tom Segura – Sledgehammer
• Mo’Nique – My Name is Mo’Nique

Here are a couple names and links to great examples of stand up shows:

• Zarna Garg – One in a Billion
• Nate Bargatze – Hello World

HBO and Max Stand Up Shows

These are two good places to find stand up shows. There are more classic programs on HBO than anywhere else as they basically invented comedy specials.

Here’s a link to their current lineup of comedians

To save you a bit of time, here’s a list of stand up shows.

• Bo Burnham – Inside
• Tom Segura – Mostly Stories
• Bill Burr – Paper Tiger
• Doug Stanhope – Beer Hall Putsch
• Anthony Jeselnik – Fire in the Maternity Ward
• Ali Wong – Baby Cobra
• Taylor Tomlinson – Quarter-Life Crisis
• Mike Birbiglia – The New One
• Maria Bamford – Weakness is the Brand
• Shane Gillis – Live in Austin
• Dave Chappelle – Age of Spin
• Michelle Wolf – Nice Lady
• Carlin – Jammin’ in New York
• Pryor – Live in Concert

Here are some links to the stand up shows of their work:

• Whoopi Goldberg
• Anthony Jeselnik
• Sherry Shepherd
• Michael Davis Comedian Jugglers
• Christina Pazsitsky
• Loni Love

Podcasts

There are loads of podcasts on stand-up comedy.
Some talk about it, while others have comedians. This is a great way of being familiar with what’s currently going on in the world of stand-up comedy.

Whether you prefer the classics, with timeless comedy masters like Lenny Bruce and Phillis Diller, or enjoy the contemporary stylings of Ali Wong or Bill Burr, the world of stand-up comedy has something just for you.

With the plethora of stand up shows options available at your fingertips, laughter is never more than a click away. Discover new comedians, revisit old favorites, and let yourself be swept away by the infectious energy of live laughter.

In conclusion, with streaming platforms catering to our laughter needs, we are truly spoilt for choice. So, grab your favorite snacks and eatables, and get ready to laugh until your cheeks hurt. In the world of stand-up comedy there is room for your stand up show. Remember, laughter is contagious, pass it on.

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