Black Comedians on Black Comedy

How African-Americans Taught Us to Laugh

By Littleton, Darryl J.

Publishers Summary:
For almost four hundred years, black Americans have been entertaining the masses through humor. Here is the only up to date book to examine this genre. This book traces the history and evolution through the 121 interviews conducted with some of the top African-American comedians in the world. Fables and myths are clarified, facts unraveled, and good times are nonstop as the makers of comedy history put that history in their own words. They not only share their appreciation of the established icons, but tip their hats to many of the unsung heroes as well. Those interviewed include: Dick Gregory, Eddie Murphy, Cedric the Entertainer, Mike Epps, Bernie Mac, Nick Cannon, Damon Wayans, Eddie Griffin, Arsenio Hall, Rudy Ray Moore, Chris Rock, Sinbad, Marla Gibbs, Thea Vidale, Robert Townsend, Timmie Rogers, Franklyn Ajaye, and John Witherspoon.

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ISBN
978-1-55783-680-9
Publisher
Applause Books


REVIEWS

Library Journal

Reviewed on November 15, 2006

In the introduction, comedian Dick Gregory describes this book as a "history in progress of the contribution of black comedians." Littleton, also a comedian (he performs under the name D'Militante), then divides the work into chronological eras. He begins with slaves using humor as a survival tool and continues through minstrel shows; the Chitlin' Circuit (venues at which African American ta...Log In or Sign Up to Read More

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