BY: GURU JAY
Photo By: Wikimedia Commons
Do you watch the Laugh Factory? Right after a hard day of literally working at the factory, how about watching comedians perform at the Laugh Factory? Richard Pryor was a foreman at the Laugh Factory. He could make standup comics out of clay in the same way Henry Ford made Mustangs out of steel.
Mike Epps and Tracy Morgan owe Richard Pryor’s legacy a fortune. Would there even be an “Eddie Murphy” without Richard Pryor? Did you know Saturday Night Live wanted Pryor as their inaugural host but executives feared the worse? That’s why George Carlin was chosen.
What’s so funny? Everything was a laughing matter with Richard Pryor. The comedy legend made sure his audience was having fun. Pryor is called the best because being funny was his calling. And he was the crème de la crème.
Now you see Steve Harvey doing his thing and it’s all good. What’s more, he doesn’t have a problem saying Richard paved the way for him. Jerry Seinfeld said Richard Pryor was the “Picasso of our profession.” No matter how great a comedian gets, he must acknowledge the great ones.
Have you seen Which Way Is Up, Brewster’s Millions, and Harlem Nights? Richard Pryor movies (and especially his standup specials) must be consumed on an empty stomach. With Pryor laughter comes from the gut. The comedian addressed the most controversial topics all while keeping his cool. His comedy worked because he wasn’t confrontational but observational. Plus, all types of women fell dangerously in love with him.
What was Richard Pryor’s secret to success? He understood people. We cannot overemphasize the importance of interpersonal communication. Pryor knew how to use the right word at the right time, what was better left unsaid, and how to make you feel special.
I’ve seen every Richard Pryor Show episode. Moreover, I can’t go a month’s time without his comedy. Check out Car Wash for a throwback.
Final thought, Richard Pryor almost died after setting himself on fire. Ironically, this same man set the world on fire too! How did he do it? It was an inside job.
I am Guru Jay launching into orbit in 5-4-3-2-1!
