He isn’t known for his political correctness, but his ability to tell it like it is has made Paul Mooney a legend in comedy. His routines that highlight his views on politics, world events and race have earned both praise and criticism, but Mooney is not one to let the opinions of others slow him down.
On Jan. 1, Mooney will headline the Straight Up Stupid Sunday Night comedy show at Morty’s Comedy Joint. Tickets for Paul Mooney and Friends start at $30 and are available online at mortyscomedy.com or by calling (317) 273-9727.
The Recorder recently sat with Mooney to talk about the moves he is making in the world of comedy.
Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper: What do you think makes for good comedy?
Mooney: It’s hard to say what makes good comedy. Some people have it and some just don’t. You just have to be able to keep people laughing.
The election of Donald Trump has a lot of people upset about the future of our country, while others are ecstatic about the idea of “taking America back.” Some people have mentioned that this is a gold mine for comedians. What role do you feel comedy plays in analyzing society?
Does it surprise you how divided this country is and how many people dislike certain people? Donald Trump is a piece of work. He thinks Mexicans are the only ones who commit crime, right? He has Ben Carson in his cabinet. The only person I’m going to support is Uncle Ben on the rice box at the store. He is going to put Ben Carson on his cabinet thinking he knows about the ghetto because he grew up in it. Huh? How stupid does that sound. Just because you grow up in the ghetto doesn’t make you an expert. There are a lot of people from the ghetto that don’t know anything. Why don’t you make him the surgeon general? He’s a doctor.
I ran across an email the other day that mentioned political correctness is killing comedy. Do you agree?
No. You know, we had a show in Charlotte and they were afraid that we were going to tell it like it is. They made us cancel the show. But still I say no, not at all.
Dave Chappelle is making a comeback. He just got signed to a multimillion-dollar deal with Netflix and hosted SNL. You worked with Chappelle on Comedy Central. What are your thoughts on the Netflix deal and what he’s doing now?
Get the money! Get the money! Get the money! He is a very hot comedian. What I like about Dave is that he is in control of everything. I like the way he is doing it. He is a very smart man. You put Dave Chappelle tickets for sale at 1 o’clock and they are gone at 1:15.
You have accomplished a lot in your career. What do you want to do in the future?
I would like to start bringing up up-and-coming comedians. There are a lot of young funny ones out there, and they need a break. I’m not going to always be around. I want to find the youngsters. I’m old enough to be a grandfather. Let’s keep it real.
‘Straight Up Stupid Sunday’ With Paul Mooney
Sunday, Jan. 1
Morty’s Comedy Joint
3824 E. 82nd St.
Indianapolis, IN 46240
7:30 p.m. and 10:15 p.m.
This event is for ages 18+
mortyscomedy.com
