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Finger On The Pulse With Topical JokesThe world is constantly changing! There’s always something new to talk about and many comedians need to keep their fingers on the pulse to write the most up to date material they can.
You can make a career from topical jokes and here we take advice from one of the best in the business and learn how to!
When it comes to topical material, timing is everything. Alonzo Bodden (a Pro comic who’s made a living from topical jokes) highlights the importance of delivering jokes quickly for topics with a short shelf life.
During the Trump presidency, for instance, any outrageous statement made by the former president could be swiftly turned into comedic gold. By seizing these opportunities and quickly sharing jokes, comedians can capture the essence of current events and engage with their audiences.
One of the keys to creating topical material that stands out is finding a unique perspective. Bodden suggests looking for a point of view that hasn’t been explored by others.
While parallel thinking is inevitable, striving to offer a fresh take on a topic can help comedians carve their own niche in the comedy world. By infusing personal thoughts and opinions into their material, comedians can captivate audiences with their distinct voice.
Comedy legends like Chris Rock and Lewis Black have undoubtedly influenced many aspiring comedians. However, Bodden warns against unintentionally imitating other comics. He shares his experience of encountering parallel thought with Chris Rock and emphasises the importance of developing one’s own unique comedic style.
While drawing inspiration from established comedians is natural, finding one’s own voice and avoiding direct imitation is crucial for long-term success in the comedy industry.
Jokes about news issues that are always present can be super useful! These tend to be evergreen topics and Issues like racism, the #MeToo movement, or gun control are great examples as they have a lasting relevance that goes beyond current events.
Bodden suggests delving into personal thoughts and viewpoints on these evergreen topics. By tapping into the deeper aspects of societal issues, comedians can create material that not only elicits laughter but also sparks introspection and meaningful discussions.
We would like to credit the Hot Breath YouTube channel for providing valuable insights from Alonzo Bodden on writing topical jokes in the world of comedy.
Trusting yout sense of humour is paramount in the world of comedy. Bodden, a self-proclaimed news junkie, believes that if a joke makes him laugh, it’s worth pursuing. This is a fantastic bit of advice for all comedians, topical joke writers or not!
By confidently delivering material that resonates with your own comedic sensibilities, you can invite audiences to see the world through your eyes.
Whether you’re a budding comedian or a fan of stand-up comedy, these insights from Alonzo Bodden offer valuable guidance on crafting engaging and original material that leaves audiences laughing and thinking.
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