RYAN LONG: Andrew Tate, standup comedy, Jordan Peterson, The Hard Times & more
Jul 24, 2023
auto_awesome
Ryan Long, a comedian known for his sharp stand-up and The Boyscast, dives into the chaotic world of comedy. He shares insights into the evolving nature of stand-up in the age of podcasts and COVID-19. The conversation touches on balancing commercial pressures with creative freedom, the clash of authenticity and political expectations, and the unique dynamics of performing in iconic venues. Long also reflects on societal influences from controversial figures like Andrew Tate and Jordan Peterson, highlighting humor's role in addressing serious issues.
The discussion highlights the contrasting lifestyles of musicians and comedians, emphasizing how the structured work of comedians limits their partying opportunities compared to the more chaotic lives of musicians on tour.
The evolution of podcasts has enabled comedians to develop personal connections with audiences, allowing them to build a dedicated fan base beyond traditional stand-up shows.
The conversation addresses the complicated relationship between contemporary culture and comedy, illustrating how comedians navigate societal truths that can become taboo in modern discourse.
Deep dives
The Comedy and Music Connection
The interplay between comedy and music is highlighted, emphasizing how both fields often attract wild personalities. The conversation explores the idea that musicians tend to exhibit more youthful exuberance, making them appear wilder than their stand-up comedian counterparts, who might have years of 'degenerate' experiences but have matured in their craft. Stand-up comedians typically find success later in life, attracting a different audience and performing in environments less conducive to chaotic lifestyles. There’s an acknowledgment that while musicians have wild tours, comedians often work structured jobs, limiting their opportunities to party when compared to their more glamorous counterparts.
The Evolution of Comedy in the Podcast Era
The podcast revolution has transformed stand-up comedy, allowing comedians to build a fan base that extends beyond traditional formats. There is a notable shift where listeners now feel an affinity towards comedians, as they develop personal connections through interviews and podcasts rather than just watching their stand-up specials. The speaker notes the surprising shift in audience engagement, where everyday people now have their favorite comedians, reflecting the accessibility provided by platforms like YouTube. This evolution in the comedic landscape indicates a growing appreciation for comedy as an art form that extends into personal storytelling and direct audience interaction.
Cultural Observations and Commentary
The discussion delves into the nature of contemporary cultural commentary, touching on societal trends and how comedians navigate them. There’s a pointed observation that comedians often reference basic societal truths that become taboo, creating friction between comedy and modern sensibilities. This tension illustrates the comedy's role in expressing honest opinions about culture, particularly in politically charged atmospheres. The speaker advocates for comedians to remain rooted in reflection of the real-world conversations that occur among friends, often contrasting these authentic exchanges with the sanitized narratives prevalent in media.
Success in Stand-Up Comedy and Personal Identity
Success in stand-up comedy is portrayed as not only about financial gain but also a means of personal fulfillment and identity. The speaker shares insights into viewing stand-up as the centerpiece of their career, despite the challenges it poses compared to content creation or podcasting. They contemplate how to balance their artistic integrity with the demands of an evolving audience, reflecting on how stand-up keeps them grounded amid the chaos of fame. The value of being connected to live audiences is stressed, as the immediacy of stand-up provides a feedback loop that helps comedians stay relevant and relatable.
Critiquing the Guru Phenomenon
The rise of motivational figures and 'gurus' in modern society highlights a fascination with self-improvement, but it is noted that these figures often simplify complex issues into digestible advice. The speaker reflects on how characters like Andrew Tate tap into a yearning for validation among young men. While advocating for personal accountability and motivation is essential, there’s skepticism about how these figures may inadvertently promote problematic ideals. The exploration of this phenomenon suggests a tension between wanting to empower individuals and the risk of endorsing extreme, unrealistic expectations.
