comedian-jordan-bradySometimes, a stand-up comedy act can be so powerful that it literally has an impact upon generations of stand-up comedians, their routines or the everyday language and references used by stand-up comedy fans.

I’m a sucker for stand-up comedy history–especially knowing what has happened “behind the scenes”. It’s just fascinating to me and one of the reasons I have recommended Betsy Borns book “Comic Lives” over and over again for years.

Well, in the process of interviewing Jordan Brady, the hilarious comedian turned movie director, I made an amazing discovery…

Jordan was the very first comedian — the actual pioneer (or instigator if you will) — who started the whole “porno” music reference used by many comedians and stand-up comedy fans for decades now. It sounds something like “baum chika baum baum” when blurted out in a highly recognizable old jazz music type style tempo.

I think a visual reference is best, don’t you?

Let me show you comedian Jordan Brady’s actual routine as performed on a stand-up comedy program called “The A-List” in the early 90’s where he talks about this this “porno music” experience – direct from Comedy Central:

Comedian Jordan Brady on “Porno” Music (clean bit too):

I have used that “baum chika baum baum” reference personally in everyday conversations for years myself.

OK, just to be clear for those folks who may have reading comprehension issues:

I don’t use that particular reference everyday. If I did, I would qualify for OCD and some powerful medicine to help with that condition.

By the way, that bit is has a PAR Score of 36. And its impact on comedians and comedy routines over the years is undeniable.

So, here’s my call to action:

Do you know of any comedian’s comedy routine that has influenced other comedians or the public at large in a big way?

Comment below — let me know. I would like to investigate and write about these “behind the scenes” landmarks!

I don’t run into too many Jordan Brady type “insider” stories — especially ones that are not only interesting, but evidenced by a video too.

I will be meeting with Jordan and Ritch Shydner to be filmed as part of his documentary on stand-up comedy in Sep 09. Maybe I will get exposed to some more interesting stand-up comedy tidbits of interest that I can share.

Cheers,
Steve Roye
The Professor of Funny for Money

About the Author/Founder of The Stand-up Comedy Professional

Steve Roye is the author of the Killer Stand-up Comedy System and author of the content made available in the Comedy Pro Membership Program available on this site.

Over the past decade, Steve has established himself as a leading, globally recognized expert in the field of stand-up comedy material development, delivery and entertainment business strategies for comedy entertainers as well as speaking professionals.

For more information about Steve, please check out the About The Author section on this site.