Uncover The Lost Legends: The Comedians Of The 80's

The term "comedians of the 80's" refers to a group of comedians who rose to prominence during the 1980s, known for their distinctive comedic styles and contributions to the entertainment industry.

The 1980s marked a significant era in comedy, characterized by the emergence of stand-up comedy as a mainstream form of entertainment. Comedians of this era pushed the boundaries of humor, often tackling controversial and taboo topics, and delivering their routines with a raw and edgy approach.

Some notable comedians of the 80's include Eddie Murphy, Robin Williams, Steve Martin, David Letterman, and many more. These comedians not only entertained audiences but also left a lasting impact on the art of comedy, influencing subsequent generations of comedians and shaping the comedic landscape of today.

Comedians of the 80's

The comedians of the 80's left an indelible mark on the world of comedy. They were a group of talented and innovative performers who pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable to say and do on stage. Their influence can still be seen in comedy today.

• Stand-up: The 80's saw the rise of stand-up comedy as a mainstream form of entertainment.
• Edgy: The comedians of the 80's were known for their edgy and often controversial material.
• Influential: They influenced a generation of comedians and continue to inspire today's performers.
• Breakthrough: Eddie Murphy's breakthrough performance on Saturday Night Live in 1980 is often seen as the beginning of the 80's comedy boom.
• Diversity: The comedians of the 80's came from a variety of backgrounds, which brought new perspectives to comedy.
• Cultural impact: Their comedy reflected the social and political changes of the 1980s.
• Legacy: The comedians of the 80's left a lasting legacy on the world of comedy.
• Innovation: They were constantly innovating and experimenting with new comedic forms.
• Entertainment: Above all, they brought laughter to millions of people.

The comedians of the 80's were a diverse and talented group of performers who changed the face of comedy. They were edgy, innovative, and influential, and their legacy continues to inspire today's comedians.

Stand-up

The rise of stand-up comedy in the 1980s was closely linked to the emergence of the "comedians of the 80's." These comedians, such as Eddie Murphy, Robin Williams, and Steve Martin, were able to reach a wide audience through television and film, and their success helped to make stand-up comedy a mainstream form of entertainment.

Prior to the 1980s, stand-up comedy was largely confined to comedy clubs and small theaters. However, the success of comedians like Murphy and Williams led to a greater demand for stand-up comedy, and soon it was being featured on television shows and in movies. This exposure helped to introduce stand-up comedy to a wider audience, and it also led to the development of new comedy clubs and theaters.

The rise of stand-up comedy in the 1980s had a profound impact on the entertainment industry. It helped to launch the careers of some of the most successful comedians in history, and it also led to the development of new comedic styles and formats. Stand-up comedy is now one of the most popular forms of entertainment in the world, and it continues to be a major force in the entertainment industry.

Edgy

Edgy comedy often pushes the boundaries of what is considered acceptable to say or do on stage. This can be a risky approach, but it can also be very rewarding. Comedians who are able to successfully walk this line can create some of the most memorable and thought-provoking comedy.

• Breaking Taboos: Comedians of the 80's were not afraid to tackle controversial topics, such as race, religion, and politics. They used humor to challenge social norms and to get people thinking about important issues.
• Pushing Boundaries: Comedians of the 80's were always looking for new and innovative ways to make people laugh. They were not afraid to experiment with different comedic styles and to take risks.
• Honest & Raw: The edgy comedy of the 80's was often very honest and raw. Comedians were willing to share their own personal experiences and to talk about their own struggles.
• Political Commentary: Many comedians of the 80's used their comedy to comment on the political and social issues of the day. They were not afraid to speak their minds, even if it meant offending some people.

The edgy comedy of the 80's was a reflection of the times. It was a time of great social and political change, and comedians were using their humor to process these changes and to make sense of the world around them.

Influential

The comedians of the 80's were not only successful in their own right, but they also had a profound impact on the world of comedy. They influenced a generation of comedians and continue to inspire today's performers.

One of the reasons why the comedians of the 80's were so influential is that they were able to connect with audiences on a personal level. They spoke about real-life experiences and issues that resonated with people, and they did so in a way that was both funny and thought-provoking.

Another reason why the comedians of the 80's were so influential is that they were willing to take risks. They were not afraid to experiment with new comedic styles and to challenge the status quo. This willingness to take risks helped to push the boundaries of comedy and to create new possibilities for comedic expression.

The influence of the comedians of the 80's can be seen in the work of today's comedians. Many of today's most popular comedians cite the comedians of the 80's as their inspiration. They have learned from the comedians of the 80's how to connect with audiences, how to take risks, and how to use comedy to make a difference in the world.

Breakthrough

Eddie Murphy's breakthrough performance on Saturday Night Live in 1980 was a watershed moment in the history of comedy. Murphy's unique brand of humor, which combined sharp social commentary with physical comedy and impersonations, quickly made him a star.

Murphy's success on Saturday Night Live helped to launch the careers of other comedians, such as Robin Williams, Steve Martin, and Billy Crystal. These comedians, who became known as the "comedians of the 80's," shared Murphy's willingness to push the boundaries of comedy and to tackle controversial topics.

The comedians of the 80's had a profound impact on the world of comedy. They helped to make stand-up comedy a mainstream form of entertainment, and they inspired a generation of comedians.

The connection between Eddie Murphy's breakthrough performance on Saturday Night Live in 1980 and the rise of the comedians of the 80's is clear. Murphy's success helped to create a new era of comedy, one that was characterized by its edginess, its willingness to take risks, and its ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.

Diversity

The comedians of the 80's came from a variety of backgrounds, including different races, genders, and socioeconomic groups. This diversity brought new perspectives to comedy, as these comedians were able to draw on their own unique experiences to create their comedic material.

• Racial Diversity: The comedians of the 80's included a number of groundbreaking African American comedians, such as Eddie Murphy, Richard Pryor, and Whoopi Goldberg. These comedians were able to bring their own unique perspectives on race and society to their comedy, which helped to break down racial barriers and stereotypes.
• Gender Diversity: The comedians of the 80's also included a number of successful female comedians, such as Joan Rivers, Lily Tomlin, and Gilda Radner. These comedians were able to bring their own unique perspectives on gender and society to their comedy, which helped to challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes.
• Socioeconomic Diversity: The comedians of the 80's came from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds. Some, like Eddie Murphy, came fromimpoverished backgrounds, while others, like Steve Martin, came from more affluent backgrounds. This diversity of backgrounds helped to ensure that the comedians of the 80's were able to connect with audiences from all walks of life.

The diversity of the comedians of the 80's was one of the things that made them so successful. They were able to bring new perspectives to comedy, which helped to make their comedy more relatable and entertaining to a wider range of audiences.

Cultural impact

The comedians of the 1980s were not just entertainers; they were also cultural commentators. Their comedy reflected the social and political changes of the decade, from the rise of the conservative movement to the AIDS crisis.

• The Rise of Conservatism: The 1980s saw the rise of the conservative movement in the United States. Comedians such as Dennis Miller and Rush Limbaugh used their humor to satirize the excesses of the left and to promote conservative values.
• The AIDS Crisis: The AIDS crisis was a major social and political issue of the 1980s. Comedians such as Richard Pryor and Whoopi Goldberg used their humor to raise awareness of the disease and to challenge the stigma associated with it.
• The Yuppie Culture: The 1980s was also a time of economic prosperity, which led to the rise of the "yuppie" culture. Comedians such as Eddie Murphy and Steve Martin satirized the materialism and excess of the yuppie lifestyle.
• The Cold War: The Cold War was still a major source of tension in the 1980s. Comedians such as Robin Williams and George Carlin used their humor to criticize the arms race and to promote peace.

The comedy of the 1980s was a reflection of the times. It was a decade of great social and political change, and comedians were there to document it all. Their comedy was often funny, but it was also thought-provoking and insightful. It helped people to understand the world around them and to laugh at themselves.

Legacy

The comedians of the 80's were a groundbreaking group of performers who changed the face of comedy. They were edgy, innovative, and influential, and their legacy continues to inspire today's comedians.

One of the most important ways that the comedians of the 80's left a lasting legacy is by breaking down barriers and challenging the status quo. They were not afraid to talk about taboo topics, and they often used their comedy to criticize social and political issues. This willingness to push the boundaries helped to create a more open and inclusive comedy scene, and it also inspired a new generation of comedians to speak their minds.

Another way that the comedians of the 80's left a lasting legacy is by creating new comedic styles and formats. They were constantly experimenting with new ways to make people laugh, and they helped to create some of the most popular comedy genres of today, such as stand-up comedy, sketch comedy, and improv comedy.

The legacy of the comedians of the 80's is still felt today. Their influence can be seen in the work of today's most popular comedians, and their groundbreaking work continues to inspire new generations of performers. They were a truly unique group of comedians, and their legacy will continue to inspire and entertain for years to come.

Innovation

The comedians of the 1980s were known for their innovative and experimental approach to comedy. They were not afraid to break away from traditional comedic forms and to try new things. This willingness to experiment helped to create a new era of comedy that was more diverse and inclusive than ever before.

One of the most important ways that the comedians of the 1980s innovated was by creating new comedic formats. For example, stand-up comedy became increasingly popular during this time, as comedians began to perform solo routines in front of live audiences. Sketch comedy also became more popular, as comedians began to create short, humorous sketches that were often performed on television or in live shows.

The comedians of the 1980s also experimented with new comedic styles. For example, some comedians began to use more personal and confessional material in their routines. Others began to use more political and social commentary in their work. This willingness to experiment with new styles helped to create a more diverse and vibrant comedy scene.

The innovation of the comedians of the 1980s had a profound impact on the world of comedy. It helped to create a new era of comedy that was more diverse, inclusive, and experimental than ever before. This legacy continues to inspire today's comedians, who continue to push the boundaries of comedy and to create new and innovative comedic forms.

Entertainment

The comedians of the 1980s were, above all, entertainers. They brought laughter to millions of people around the world with their jokes, sketches, and stand-up routines. Their comedy was often edgy and controversial, but it was always funny. They made people laugh about their own lives, their relationships, and the world around them.

• Making People Laugh: The comedians of the 1980s had a gift for making people laugh. They were able to find the humor in everyday situations and to turn even the most difficult topics into something funny. Their comedy was a welcome escape from the stresses of everyday life.
• Breaking Down Barriers: The comedians of the 1980s also used their humor to break down barriers. They tackled controversial topics such as race, gender, and politics, and they made people laugh about things that they had never laughed about before. Their comedy helped to create a more open and inclusive society.
• Inspiring Others: The comedians of the 1980s inspired a generation of comedians. They showed that it was possible to be funny and successful, and they encouraged others to pursue their dreams of becoming comedians. Their legacy continues to inspire today's comedians, who continue to make people laugh and to make the world a better place.

The comedians of the 1980s were more than just entertainers. They were also social commentators and cultural icons. They made people laugh, but they also made them think. Their comedy helped to shape the culture of the 1980s, and it continues to influence comedy today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Comedians of the 80's

The comedians of the 1980s were a groundbreaking group of performers who changed the face of comedy. They were edgy, innovative, and influential, and their legacy continues to inspire today's comedians. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about them:

Question 1: Who were some of the most famous comedians of the 1980s?

Some of the most famous comedians of the 1980s include Eddie Murphy, Robin Williams, Steve Martin, David Letterman, and Whoopi Goldberg.

Question 2: What was the comedy scene like in the 1980s?

The comedy scene in the 1980s was very different from what it is today. Stand-up comedy was becoming increasingly popular, and comedy clubs were popping up all over the country. Comedians were also starting to use more personal and confessional material in their routines.

Question 3: What impact did the comedians of the 1980s have on comedy?

The comedians of the 1980s had a profound impact on comedy. They helped to create a new era of comedy that was more diverse, inclusive, and experimental than ever before. They also inspired a generation of comedians, who continue to make people laugh and to make the world a better place.

Question 4: What are some of the most famous comedy specials from the 1980s?

Some of the most famous comedy specials from the 1980s include Eddie Murphy's Delirious, Robin Williams' Live at the Met, and Steve Martin's Wild and Crazy Guy.

Question 5: What are some of the most famous comedy movies from the 1980s?

Some of the most famous comedy movies from the 1980s include Trading Places, The Blues Brothers, and Ghostbusters.

Question 6: Where can I learn more about the comedians of the 1980s?

There are many resources available to learn more about the comedians of the 1980s. You can find books, articles, and documentaries online and in libraries. You can also watch their comedy specials and movies on streaming services and DVD.

The comedians of the 1980s were a truly unique group of performers. Their legacy continues to inspire today's comedians, and their comedy will continue to make people laugh for generations to come.

Transition to the next article section: The comedians of the 1980s were just one part of a larger comedy boom that took place during that decade. In the next section, we will take a look at some of the other factors that contributed to the rise of comedy in the 1980s.

Tips from Comedians of the 1980s

The comedians of the 1980s were known for their edgy and innovative approach to comedy. They were not afraid to take risks and to push the boundaries of what was considered acceptable to say and do on stage. Their comedy was often personal and confessional, and they used humor to explore their own experiences and to comment on the world around them.

Here are a few tips from the comedians of the 1980s that can help you to improve your own comedic skills:

1. Be yourself. The best comedy comes from a place of authenticity. Don't try to be someone you're not, and don't be afraid to share your own unique perspective on the world.

2. Be honest. Honesty is essential for good comedy. If you're not honest with your audience, they won't be able to connect with you or your material.

3. Take risks. Don't be afraid to experiment with new material and to take risks on stage. The best comedians are always willing to push the boundaries and to try new things.

4. Be observant. Good comedians are always observing the world around them and finding the humor in everyday life. Pay attention to the people and the things around you, and you'll find plenty of material for your comedy.

5. Be persistent. Comedy is a tough business, and it takes time to develop your skills and to find your voice. Don't give up if you don't succeed overnight. Keep working hard and practicing your craft, and eventually you'll achieve your goals.

Following these tips can help you to become a better comedian. Just remember to be yourself, be honest, take risks, be observant, and be persistent. With hard work and dedication, you can achieve your comedic dreams.

Summary of key takeaways:

• Be yourself.
• Be honest.
• Take risks.
• Be observant.
• Be persistent.

Conclusion:

The comedians of the 1980s were some of the most innovative and influential comedians of all time. They changed the face of comedy and inspired a generation of comedians. By following their tips, you can learn to become a better comedian and to make your own unique mark on the world of comedy.

Conclusion

The comedians of the 1980s were a groundbreaking group of performers who changed the face of comedy. They were edgy, innovative, and influential, and their legacy continues to inspire today's comedians.

The comedians of the 1980s broke down barriers, challenged the status quo, and created new comedic styles and formats. They used humor to make people laugh, but they also made them think. Their comedy was a reflection of the social and political changes of the 1980s, and it helped to shape the culture of the decade.

The comedians of the 1980s were more than just entertainers. They were also social commentators and cultural icons. They made people laugh, but they also made them think. Their comedy helped to make the world a better place, and their legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.