We had the good fortune of connecting with Ben Jackson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ben, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
In comedy, I think don’t t people are aware of the constant work and sacrifice. With the work you have to factor in the process of practice (writing & open micing). Some people think jokes come with a snap of the fingers and they do to an extent but you have to polish that baby. Shows! As fun as they are to do, people pay their money so it’s a bit of pressure. Some are pressured by the crowd, I’m pressured by myself. I’m a fan of comedy more than I am one. And it’s so many comedians everyone is seeing the same things, seeing the same things. People on the outside aren’t aware of the attention to detail to staying original. That’s back to work, homework. Comedy isn’t just clowning around. And then there’s business and networking so yeah, a lot lol
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Ben Jackson, Mr. Live A Little, Laugh Alot! That’s me and that’s what I do! Most would say I’ve been a clown all my life and they’re probably correct but I actually started back in a hole in a wall (Shoutout Mel Waiters) back in 2012 in Houston, Tx. Since I’ve been a Funniest Comic In Texas Finalist, worked with some legends in the game, and even released my own comedy albums, It’s Tough & Too Tough on. I’ll be taping my 1st comedy special July 2022! Get ready!
In 10 years I’ve worked hard to become a respected artist on stage. In my first two years, I was getting off a 10 hour shift at the hospital then going to 2-3 open mics a night 3-4 nights a week ( weekends were traditional reserved for the working, not willing)! I loved it! It was a vibe as the youngsters say. I didn’t care that I was getting bumped (pushed back) for the pals of host or guys with more experience. That’s the game. I worked with what I had. I borrowed the philosophy of Chris Garnder. Maximizing my time.
I guess you can say it’s been a long time coming and I’ll be coming for a long time, I’m just getting started! By the end I’ll have a brand new comedy special
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Hmmm some of my favorite spots? Well of course anywhere with a microphone. I’m going to make sure you seeing some of the best comedy in the city. Of course Houston is good for a live lounge, club, bukkit neckit, but we have some of the best comedy in the city. My comedy homies Ray Etc & Jeff Joe run shows throughout the week and they’re going to bangers! My daquiri spot is Daquiri Explosions! They been having me lit for years lol. 2 One Hitta Quittas for me! Gotta swing by the Urban Flower Company. The going to get me right (smirk)
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
God. My parents Tamiko & Chris. I’m them. My family, it’s so many and I have a dope family both sides in Houston, Monroe, Franklin, Milwaukee, New Iberia etc. And Wildest In Comedy!
Website: whereuben.com
Instagram: @benadamnfool
Twitter: @benadamnfool
Facebook: Ben “The Comedian” Jackson
Youtube: youtube.com/bennyrozay2345