Taylor Williamson shares his journey in comedy, his experience on America's Got Talent, and why he chose The Comedy Store for his new special. They reflect on the Los Angeles comedy scene, discuss family dynamics, and talk about the importance of physical comedy and vulnerability on stage.
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Quick takeaways
Taylor Williamson's appearance on America's Got Talent was a turning point in his comedy career, providing him with opportunities and validation from audiences.
Williamson emphasizes the importance of authenticity, personal growth, and finding a unique voice in the evolving landscape of comedy.
Investing in oneself, taking risks, and evolving as an artist are crucial for connecting with audiences on a deeper level and achieving success in comedy.
Deep dives
Starting in Comedy and Getting Recognized by Managers and Agents
At a young age, the summary explains how the speaker began pursuing comedy, taking classes with Sandy Shore and performing at various open mics. They sent their tape to different people in the industry, including managers and agents, which led to opportunities to work with established comedians like Tom Wilson. The summary also highlights the speaker's appearance on America's Got Talent and their experiences touring with different comedians.
Navigating the Comedy Scene and Dealing with Pushback
The speaker discusses the challenges and experiences they faced in the comedy scene, including dealing with gatekeepers at comedy clubs like the Comedy Store and Improv. They mention encountering a manager who didn't believe in them and receiving pushback from certain people when discussing their Jewish identity onstage. Despite these obstacles, the speaker remains persistent and determined in pursuing their comedy career.
Building Confidence and Finding Stability in New York
After moving to New York, the speaker recalls feeling a sense of freedom and happiness. They had memorable experiences performing at various venues like the Comedy Cellar and worked alongside other comedians like Hannibal Buress and Reggie Watts. The summary reflects on the speaker's resilience and dedication to stand-up comedy, even when faced with discouragement and rejection from industry figures.
Summary Conclusion
The speaker's early years in comedy were marked by taking classes, sending out tapes, and touring with established comedians. They faced challenges with gatekeepers, encountered pushback related to their Jewish identity, and experienced the ups and downs of the comedy industry. Nonetheless, they persevered, building confidence and finding stability in New York, and remained dedicated to their craft.
The significance of America's Got Talent in Taylor Williamson's career
Taylor Williamson discusses how his participation in America's Got Talent had a transformative impact on his career. He attributes his second-place finish on the show, where he refrained from talking about being Jewish, as a major turning point. Williamson expresses gratitude towards the show for providing him with opportunities, such as performing in sold-out clubs, getting a house, and selling and developing shows. Despite not receiving the industry's love he desired, the support and validation from the people made it a special experience for him.
Navigating the comedy industry and finding personal authenticity
Williamson reflects on his journey in the comedy industry and shares insights about the challenges and lessons he learned. He highlights the importance of focusing on authenticity and personal growth as a comedian. He acknowledges the evolving landscape of comedy, where traditional credits and following the tried-and-true ladder of success are becoming less relevant. Williamson emphasizes the need for comedians to adapt and find their unique voice, rather than chasing trends or seeking validation from the industry. He also encourages investing in oneself and taking risks in order to evolve as an artist and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
Taylor Williamson’s obsession with comedy led him to club gigs as a teenager and national press coverage praising “the 19-year-old’s cerebral wit.” But Taylor tells Marc he was ready to give up on his dreams after a few years of the comedy grind. They talk about how America’s Got Talent was his salvation, what he learned after a decade of projects that almost got off the ground, and why he taped his new special at The Comedy Store, a place he views with equal parts gratitude and resentment.