Stand up comedy is a very personal thing, some people love it, and some people hate it. Even amongst those who like it, opinions are divided on what makes a funny routine. So, here’s my contribution to the argument, some of my favorite stand up comedians, doing my favorite skits. In no particular order:

Three fellows wenten into a pubbe…
What is it? The Chaucer Pub Gag.
Who’s it by? Bill Bailey.
Does it need any prior knowledge? You need to have read, or be familiar with the works of Henry Chaucer.
What makes it funny? It’s something different and interesting.

I love black people! But I hate n*****rs!
What is it? Observational humor concerning two different kinds of black people.
Who’s it by? Chris Rock.
Does it need prior knowledge? Nah. Only an ability to take race based humor.
What makes it so funny? The ‘WTF’ Rating of a black guy saying things that would get a white guy shot. Plus Chris rock’s delivery is hilarious.

Please note I’m not racist. I just don’t have any qualms about laughing at racist jokes that are actually funny, no matter what race, including white, they are aimed at. So please, no hate mail.

I should never have smoked that joint on the third day…
What is it? Opinions on drug legislation and attitude in America.
Who’s it by? Bill Hicks.
Does it need prior knowledge? A basic knowledge of drugs (not necessarily first hand)
What makes it so funny? He tells it how it is, without the BS, and finished with a lovely vision of the future.

She’s flying at seventy miles an hour…
What is it? A funny story about a bus ride from hell.
Who is it? Billy Connolly.
Does it Need Prior Knowledge? No.
[b]What makes it so funny? I think Funny stories like this are the best kind of standup comedy, and Billy Connolly always has interesting yarns.

At 20 she looks 40, at 40 she looks 60, at 60, don’t look.
What is it? Satire and stereotyping during the cold war.
Who is it? Yakov Smirnoff.
Does it need prior knowledge? If you have an idea of the stereotype of cold war Russia, you’ll be fine.
What makes it so funny? Smirnoff plays on the stereotypes and misconceptions. The funny thing is, he’s taking the piss out of the audience as much as he is Russia, and they don’t seem to realize it.

In closing.
Hope these helped to raise a dry smile for you all, or maybe even introduce you to some comedians you didn’t know. It’s always good to learn, and even better if it’s fun doing it. If you’d like to see any more of my articles and collections, which range from Lists like this, to serious essays, you can view them all here: https://www.triond.com/users/Evis+T. Love and peace y’all!

-Evis T