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

For more information about Steve Roye, author of this blog and the Killer Stand-up Online Course, click here.


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