Chicago is the home of comedic legends. Names like Bernie Mac, Robert Townsend, Deon Cole, Hannibal Buress and Lil Rel come to mind immediately when Chicago is mentioned in the comedic sphere. The list of names could be much longer just because of how deep the talent pool is. We took some time to dip into the comedic talent pool and we discovered Clark Jones. Jones has worked with the likes of Hannibal Buress and Patrice O’Neal. He has also done work with Andy Samberg of “Saturday Night Live” for Digital Shorts. His comedy is intelligent and speaks to social issues. We spoke to Clark about growing up in Chicago and how his tastes inform his comedy.
Tell everyone who you are.
I am currently, just this second, the most successful comedian to graduate from Morehouse College. I’m a mama’s boy from the South Side of Chicago, Whitney Young graduate (but shout-out to the whole red west) I’m a fighter for myself and others, I’m Clark Jones.
Talk about growing up in Chicago and how it helped inspire you to do what you do.
Chicago got jokes. Family, politics, food, taxes. All those things, if they’re bad enough, can take you out. So you got to have a joke, that’s the strength of the city.
After watching a few of your sets, it’s noticeable that your music taste crosses genres. You speak about everyone from Bone Thugs in Harmony to Creed. What type of influence has music had on you and your comedy?
I still can rap! I just like being up there. Two thousand people is way easier than two people. I got pre-show music just to get my mind ready, and then it’s Coldplay after. Good for the mood.
What is it about comedy that makes it easier to address social issues?
There’s no defense if you’re laughing. If you’re laughing, then you agree with something I said. When I taught in High Schools in Chicago I used the jail strategy. You know how in prison you try to fight the toughest guy to earn respect? That’s what I would do to the toughest kid, not fight them but make him or her laugh then, I got them.
What are you looking to accomplish with your platform?
Would it be crazy if I said just doing this show is my goal? That’s how I am before every show, anything beyond that I’m like “dope” I want after every set somebody to think “He said what I couldn’t say, but wanted to.”
What has been the most memorable event of your career thus far?
Opening for Hannibal Buress at Patrice’ O’Neal’s “Elephant in the Room” tour at the Skirball Theater in New York. Patrice O’Neal was a master at comedy. Hannibal killed it for an hour plus, after I thought I had a great set and was feeling satisfied, I saw Hannibal go do another set right after that. I never got too satisfied after seeing that. I was also having a day from hell when I got the message to do the show. It’s all ups and downs, like Wall Street.
What has been the most challenging aspect of your career?
Being away from family for long periods is challenging. But everybody gets it and they are real supportive, which helps when I don’t want to FaceTime. My cousin just came home after 10 years I found out today! Shouts to Joseph.
Talk about the “Good Damn Comedy Show” coming up on May 7.
That’s the main event! It’s Mother’s Day, and who needs a laugh more than your mama? It’s easy, just bring her out and Beth Stelling, Liza Treyger, Nicole Byer, and myself will do all the work. I don’t see why you wouldn’t do this.
What is next for you?
Check me out on NBC Seeso’s “Night Train with Wyatt Cenac” this spring, see me Mother’s Day at the Harris Theater and at Harold’s in Hyde Park 3-4 times while I’m home.
What encouraging words do you have for our readers?
Stop just knowing how much something cost, start knowing and appreciating what it’s worth.
Twitter: @theeclarkjones
