September 2017 - Make 'Em Laugh: A Q&A with Buck Dangerous

Where did your love of comedy come from?

It came from my life, honestly. I saw it as an escape from all the things that weren't so great in my life as a child. Once I discovered it took me away to places that made me laugh, I was hooked!

Do you remember your first gig? What was it like?

Yes, I remember it vividly! My very first gig was actually something where my brother (best friend) told me, "You are doin' a comedy show next month—be ready!" So it was like I had to either come correct or be a failure, and the latter was not going to be an option. That first show I was nervous and emotional as all hell because unlike most comedians when they first hit the stage, I did it as a one man show. I was on stage for over an hour, which is something that is unheard of. It was a packed house, and I did not want to let the folks who believed in me down, nor did I want to give the people who came to see me fail that satisfaction.

What do you feel is missing when it comes to the comedy scene in Albuquerque?

Where do I begin? I feel diversity, inclusion of outsiders (people who don't frequent the comedy scene much), promotion of the scene, and lastly and most importantly funny comics who can make any and all crowds laugh.

What is your inspiration when it comes to planning your sets?

My life experiences (nothing is more funny than the truth, no matter how dark it seems or seemed) and the funny people I've been fans of, may it be people I personally know or [people I] looked up to and respected as comedians.

What gigs do you have coming down the pipeline?

I have The Roast of Buck D coming on September 1, which will be an event we put together for my birthday that will include a few other comedians of ABQ, as well as people I consider friends. Also in the works now is an hour show at Nexus Silver Taproom tentatively scheduled for September 22.