Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamie Gravy.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Jamie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I began comedy in December of 2015. I went up through the local Dallas/Fort Worth open mic comedy scene before getting booked regularly at clubs. The Improv Comedy Club in Arlington, TX, gave me the first weekend as house MC. My second weekend with them, I was fortunate to work with famed comedian, Eddie Griffin. After our weekend in Arlington, Eddie pulled me aside to discuss my set. He loved it! I was beyond humbled and absolutely stoked! He then asked me to fly with him to Boston, where I’d be the opening act of his Showtime special, “Undeniable.”
After coming back from Boston, things changed for me here in Dallas. So, I decided to try my luck on the east coast. In the summer of 2018, I moved to New York City in hopes of furthering my comedy career and network. After just a couple of short years in the big apple, I was able to work with countless nationally headlining comedians, started a month show in Manhattan as well as private shows for the employees of the Soho House in New York. Now, here we are in 2020. I came back after the outbreak to be home with family and friends. Plus, I missed Tex-Mex food like no one’s business. Maybe after everything settles down, I’ll set my eyes on the west coast. Who knows. The future of comedy seems uncertain anywhere except the internet. So, I’m here for it.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Any comedian you ask should have countless trials to share. Most that of the bombing. At the beginning of my career, I was focused on racially charged jokes and material. Although it eventually took me to greener pastures, it came with plenty of backlashes. Nothing is more uncomfortable as a white comic than hearing someone call you “Kramer” from the back of a mostly black crowd after your race joke just tanked. It’s a long walk off stage, believe me.
I met another challenge as I left to NYC. I’ve lived in DFW my entire life before going to New York just months before turning 30. It was scary. I knew no one and nothing about the city. It was truly like starting over. It made me feel like all the time I spent in Dallas was a waste if I was just to start over after moving. Of course, this is a ridiculous thought; Nothing is a waste of time if it is energy spent working toward your goal. Because, like everything, after putting in some time, opportunities present themselves.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I’m in the laughing business. I’d love to come out to your club, bar or venue and have a good time! Feel free to shoot me an email. I also do private parties or events. Whatever the celebration, we can make it happen. Unless it’s like Eyes Wide Shut stuff kinda.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Perseverance. This is a quality that every comedian will need for their success. Also, having a stellar work ethic is equally as important. They go hand-in-hand, really. And of course, a great attitude always helps. After all, they’re just jokes. That’s what you tell yourself even though you’re only getting older and dropped out of college years ago.
Contact Info:
- Email: jamie@jamiegravy.com
- Instagram: @jamie_gravy
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/jamiegravy
- Twitter: @jamiegravy
Image Credit:
Sam Brand Photography
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